Alor Setar:A total of 65 individuals, including fishermen, small boat operators, and tour boat supervisors, have successfully completed the Mate of Less than 500GT Domestic Trade Voyages training, officially qualifying them to operate vessels for domestic voyages.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Technology Depository Agency Berhad (TDA) CEO Mohamad Rafidi Mat Dahan highlighted that the certification provides significant career and income opportunities for the participants. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among government entities, implementing agencies, training providers, and industry to build local capabilities systematically.

The recipients received their certificates from Transport Minister Anthony Loke at a ceremony held at the Kuala Kedah Passenger Jetty Terminal. The programme was organized by TDA in partnership with Sunissa Sdn Bhd, under the Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) for a terminal project.

Mohamad Rafidi noted that this training is the first milestone in the ICP project aimed at preparing seafarers with professional competencies for both domestic and international standards. Participants came from various local maritime associations, and the training was conducted by Polaris Maritime Training Academy Sdn Bhd.

Further, Mohamad Rafidi explained that the ICP approach is designed to develop human capital and enhance local company involvement in project supply chains, ensuring long-term benefits for the industry and community. TDA, operating under the Minister of Finance (Incorporated), oversees ICP implementation to deliver sustainable and impactful benefits to local industries.