KUALA LUMPUR: The Maritime Institute of Malaysia (MIMA) organised an International Forum on Blue Economy: Prospects and Opportunities, in conjunction with the 50 years celebration of Malaysia-China's diplomatic relations.
The forum brought together leaders and experts from Malaysia and China to discuss sustainable maritime practices and cooperation.
The forum was organised in collaboration with the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI), the Transport Ministry (MoT), and the People's Republic of China Embassy in Malaysia.
Transport Deputy Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah delivered a keynote speech representing Malaysia while China was represented by People's Republic of China Minister Counsellor Lin Shiguang, MIMA said in a statement.
As a maritime nation, it said Malaysia considered the blue economy integral to its national development agenda.
" The 12th Malaysia Plan (2021 - 2025) highlights the blue economy's significance in achieving sustainable growth."
At the ministerial level, at ministries such as the Ministry of Transport (MoT), we have reinforced this vision through their ongoing policies," MIMA said.
It added that the MoT's National Transport Policy 2019 - 2030 includes a pillar focused on developing a green transportation ecosystem.
"This shift is essential to the blue economy, emphasising the reduction of carbon emissions, enhancement of energy efficiency in maritime transport, and the promotion of sustainable practices within the shipping industry.
"Malaysia's upcoming chairmanship of Asean in 2025 will advocate for stronger national policies and promote the sustainable use of ocean resources through the Blue Economy," it added.