Update maritime laws, grasp liability limits to boost Sarawak shipping, says state transport minister
KUCHING (Aug 14): Shipowners and maritime stakeholders must understand both the legal framework and practical implications of liability limitations to drive the growth of Sarawak's shipping industry, said State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin.
Speaking at the Sarawak Transport Ministry's Maritime Legal Briefing today, themed 'Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims: Practical Relevance to Sarawak', Lee stressed that maritime law must evolve to safeguard and advance the sector.
'Maritime law plays an evolving role in safeguarding and advancing the growth of Sarawak's shipping and maritime industries.
'We must ensure our laws are updated, aligned with international standards, and designed to facilitate rather than hinder industry development,' he said.
The briefing was attended by representatives from government agencies, the shipping industry, the Sarawak State Attorney-General's Chambers, Sarawak Region 5 Marine Police Force, Sarawak Region Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Sarawak Rivers Board, Sarawak Maritime Department, Kuching Port Authority, Miri Port Authority, Bintulu Port Authority, Sarawak and Sabah Shipowner Association, Sarawak Shipping Association, and maritime legal practitioners, including Perlindungan dan Indemniti Malaysia Sdn Bhd CEO Rudy Andrew Jeyaraj.
Also present were State Deputy Transport Minister (Riverine and Maritime) Dato Henry Harry Jinep, State Transport Ministry Head of Legal Division Marjanah Adenan, and the ministry's Riverine and Maritime Division officers Rudy Beltran Paris and Rahimee Dahlan.
Maritime lawyer Dr Arun Kasi delivered the main presentation, sharing expertise on liability limitation laws.
Lee noted Sarawak's jurisdiction under the Sarawak Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1960 and said a federal law revision committee, which includes ministry representatives, is reviewing and amending relevant legislation.
'This is the right time to contribute your feedback. Do not wait until the law is passed to raise concerns.
'Any provisions that require correction, enhancement, or inclusion to support industry growth should be identified now,' he said.
He also emphasised full compliance with international maritime safety requirements, citing heightened global safety standards.
The session concluded with expert discussions aimed at deepening understanding of maritime liability provisions and strengthening collaboration between government and industry. Lee Kim Shin maritime Transport Ministry
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