Bagan datuk: The Sultan Nazrin Shah Maritime Polytechnic is poised to become a premier higher education institution, a producer of highly skilled manpower, and a catalyst for globally competitive maritime technology development. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that the institution, previously known as Bagan Datuk Polytechnic, is expected to emerge as the West Coast's Centre of Excellence for Maritime Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid expressed his hopes for the polytechnic to evolve into an innovation-driven learning hub that nurtures globally competitive seafarers, engineers, and maritime technocrats. This vision was shared during his speech at the polytechnic's proclamation ceremony, which was attended by Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin, Raja Permaisuri of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim, Menteri Besar Perak Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, and Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.
Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the National TVET Council, highlighted Malaysia's reliance on the maritime sector due to its extensive coastline of over 4,800 kilometers. He emphasized the sector's importance for trade, security, tourism, fisheries, and economic growth. He also noted the rich maritime history of the Perak River, which is linked to the tin trade and both domestic and international transport.
He further mentioned that Bagan Datuk's strategic estuary position aligns with its role as a deep-sea fisheries hub under the Perak Sejahtera 2030 plan. Meanwhile, Zambry, in his address, pointed out that the national maritime sector is entering a new phase of growth, which includes ship engineering, marine technology, automation, port logistics, maintenance, and ocean sustainability. These areas demand high technical expertise and continuous innovation.
Zambry also cited international reports projecting a 4.7 percent annual growth for the global maritime industry, with over 80 percent of world trade being transported by sea. In the next five years, more than 40,000 high-skilled jobs in maritime and logistics are expected to emerge, creating vast opportunities for Malaysia's TVET graduates.