Kota Bharu fishermen’s association offers skipper certification course to meet new safety rules, with 20 participants completing the RM1,900 programme
KOTA BHARU: The Kota Bharu Area Fishermen’s Association has organised a skipper certification course to help local operators comply with new government safety regulations.
Its president, Nik Mohd Kamal Husin, said the Mate Domestic Course for Under-500 Gross Tonnage Skipper is crucial for fishing boat owners who carry passengers like anglers.
The initiative follows government action after safety concerns and incidents, including fatal sinkings, highlighted a reliance on experience over formal training.
“Previously, this certificate was not mandatory, but several incidents, including boat sinkings that claimed lives, prompted the government to require all boat operators carrying passengers to possess this qualification,” he said.
He explained that the course fee is RM1,900 per participant, which is below the market rate to ensure local fishermen can afford it.
The high cost of running the course, involving a training institute and specialised facilities, posed a major challenge for the association.
Nik Mohd Kamal said the association took on the initiative as part of its social responsibility to assist its 600 registered members and the wider community.
In the past, boats carrying tourists only paid a minimal licence fee, but lacked proper certification and insurance, increasing accident risks.
“This course is not merely about issuing licences, but about producing fishermen who are well-versed in safety procedures, emergency management and maritime law,” he added.
Twenty participants successfully completed the course at a ceremony held at the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia Complex in Kuala Besar.
All graduates will be monitored continuously to ensure they receive updates on regulations and safety requirements.
The association hopes other fishermen’s groups will organise similar courses to produce more skilled and knowledgeable operators.
