Kemaman: The Kemaman Port Authority, Kuantan Port Authority, and Labuan Port Authority (LPA) are looking to collaborate on a recommendation paper to the Deputy Prime Minister to expand Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes related to the maritime and port sectors.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kemaman Port Authority chairman Datuk Azan Ismail stated that the proposal would focus on creating more structured opportunities for local youths to gain skills, exposure, and career pathways in port operations, logistics, cargo handling, marine services, and other related fields. He emphasized that the port sector should be open to more young Malaysians, especially those from local communities near port areas.

Datuk Azan highlighted that many young individuals might not be fully aware of the skills and training pathways available to enter the port industry. He expressed the need for more TVET-related programmes connected to the port sector to train and equip local youths, providing them with opportunities to participate in this vital economic sector. The proposed recommendation paper would reflect the shared views of the three port authorities on strengthening human capital development in the port sector.

LPA general manager Mizool Amir Mat Drus expressed the support of the LPA for the proposal, noting that the three port authorities also regulate and facilitate port activities linked to the oil and gas sector. He urged that TVET should serve as a platform to boost job opportunities in the maritime and port sectors, offering technical and operational career opportunities in cargo handling, oil and gas support services, safety, logistics, and port operations.

Mizool emphasized that collaboration among the three port authorities would allow them to provide practical input based on their operating environments and industry needs, ensuring that any proposed TVET programme for the port sector is relevant, industry-driven, and able to support future manpower requirements.

Also present during the working visit were Kuantan Port Authority general manager Hasnita Mohd Hanapiah, Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Idjal Tahir, and senior officials from the three port authorities. The delegates were briefed on the operations and development of Labuan Port, including the role of the LPA as the regulatory authority and Megah Port Management as the port operator under its supervision.