Kuala Lumpur:The Malaysia Scuba Diving Association (MSDA) has expressed its readiness to partner with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and other government agencies to enhance marine tourism and conservation sectors, following the allocations announced in Budget 2027.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MSDA President Aminor Azmi Abdul Latip stated that the association aims to actively participate in policy planning, industry development, safety standards, regulatory compliance, human capital development, and tourism promotion.
He noted that the increased allocation in Budget 2027 would foster stronger strategic cooperation between the government and industry stakeholders, aiming to protect Malaysia's marine heritage while ensuring equitable economic benefits for coastal communities.
Aminor Azmi emphasized that marine tourism development should prioritize safety, industry professionalism, community well-being, and environmental sustainability. The success of tourism should not only be measured by visitor numbers but also by the economic opportunities it creates and the preservation of marine heritage for future generations.
MSDA's industry estimates indicate that Malaysia hosts over 800 companies involved in marine-based tourism, with a scuba diving community of approximately 500,000 individuals.
The MSDA president reiterated six key proposals previously submitted to MOTAC, including the creation of a National Recreational Scuba Diving Safety Council to oversee safety standards, risk management, and regulatory compliance. He advocated for enhanced safety and service quality through stricter enforcement of dive guide licensing and proposed an expanded role for MSDA in promoting scuba diving via festivals, contests, and international marketing.
In terms of infrastructure and sustainable tourism governance, Aminor Azmi called for jetty upgrades, separation of passenger and cargo movements, and 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 associated with 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.
Finally, he advocated for joint marine conservation efforts to be expanded, focusing on coral reef protection, ghost net management, pollution control, and public environmental awareness.