Kuala Lumpur:The Malaysia Scuba Diving Association (MSDA) is prepared to collaborate strategically with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and relevant agencies to enhance Malaysia's marine tourism and conservation sectors, following the allocations announced under Budget 2027.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MSDA president Aminor Azmi Abdul Latip emphasized the association's commitment to policy planning, industry development, safety standards, regulatory compliance, human capital development, and tourism promotion. He expressed that the increased development allocation in Budget 2027 could act as a catalyst for stronger cooperation between the government and industry stakeholders to protect Malaysia's marine heritage while ensuring equitable economic benefits for coastal communities.

Aminor Azmi highlighted that marine tourism development should align with safety, industry professionalism, community well-being, and environmental sustainability. He stated that the success of tourism should not be measured only by the number of visitors but also by the economic opportunities created and the preservation of marine heritage for future generations.

MSDA estimates indicate that Malaysia hosts over 800 companies involved in marine-based tourism, with a scuba diving community of approximately 500,000 people. Aminor Azmi also brought attention to six key proposals submitted to MOTAC, including the creation of a National Recreational Scuba Diving Safety Council to oversee safety standards, risk management, and regulatory compliance.

He underscored the importance of enhancing safety and service quality through higher professional standards and stricter enforcement of dive guide licensing. He also proposed an expanded role for MSDA in scuba diving promotion through dive festivals, photography contests, and international marketing initiatives.

Regarding infrastructure and sustainable tourism governance, Aminor Azmi called for the upgrading of jetties, the separation of passenger and cargo movements, and the management of visitor capacities at Pulau Tenggol, Pulau Bidong, Labuan, and emerging destinations in Sabah to prevent overtourism.

For human capital development, he suggested that MOTAC work with ministries related to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to establish a National Scuba Diving Academy, which would offer skills training, safety education, and career pathways for youth. He also advocated for expanded joint marine conservation efforts, focusing on coral reef protection, ghost net management, pollution control, and public environmental awareness.