Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Transport (MOT) is reviewing at least six maritime laws to strengthen Malaysia's maritime industry and ensure it remains competitive and aligned with current needs. Minister Anthony Loke announced the initiative, highlighting the establishment of a special committee chaired by Federal Court Judge Tan Sri Nallini Pathmanathan, tasked with examining the legislation and proposing amendments expected to be tabled in Parliament within one year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the committee will tackle the legislation one at a time, starting with the Merchant Shipping Ordinance. This review encompasses six critical laws: the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952, Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1960 (Sabah), Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1960 (Sarawak), Penang Port Commission Act 1955, Port Authorities Act 1963, and the Port (Privatisation) Act 1990.

Minister Loke clarified that the government does not intend to assume control over Sabah and Sarawak's maritime authority. Instead, the goal is to harmonize maritime legislation with Peninsula Malaysia while respecting the rights of the states under the Malaysia Agreement 1963. Additionally, the MOT plans to table the Admiralty Bill in Parliament this year to establish a dedicated maritime court for handling shipping-related disputes, aiming to create a more comprehensive judicial system for maritime matters.