KUCHING (Sept 20): The Sarawak Transport Ministry is exploring opportunities for its officers to undergo specialised training in maritime law at the International Maritime Law Institute (IMLI) in Malta, a body established under the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

State Transport Minister Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said the ministry welcomed IMLI’s invitation and would study ways to enable Sarawakian participation in the institute’s academic programmes.

“The Ministry is interested in exploring opportunities for Sarawak officers to benefit from this world-class training.

“Maritime law knowledge and international exposure will support Sarawak’s aspirations to strengthen its maritime sector, enhance regulatory capacity, and advance the state’s role in international maritime affairs,” he said in a statement following a courtesy visit from IMLI Director Prof Dr Norman A. Martínez Gutiérrez here on Friday, which underscored Sarawak’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships in the maritime sector.

Prof Martínez Gutiérrez said IMLI welcomed participation from Sarawak, whether through Malaysia’s national quota under the Marine Department or directly as state nominees.

He said the participation of Sarawakian officers in IMLI’s academic programmes would help strengthen local expertise and broaden professional capacity in maritime governance.

Established under the IMO, IMLI is recognised globally for its maritime law training. It has produced specialists who now serve in maritime administration, international shipping, and policy formulation worldwide.

IMLI currently offers two master’s programmes and six specialised short courses accredited by the IMO.

Under the IMO framework, donor countries such as Malaysia are entitled to one training seat annually, a quota that Malaysia has actively used by sending participants each year.

Currently, IMLI offers two master’s programmes and six specialised short courses. The master’s programme runs for 14 months, while the short courses are conducted over a three-month period.

Credit: Jude Toyat, The Borneo Post 2025