MIRI: For 28 young Sarawakians from some of the state’s most remote communities, completing the Marine Deck Apprentice (MDA) 46/2026 programme was more than receiving a certificate. It marked the beginning of a journey towards careers in Malaysia’s growing maritime industry.
The trainees, many of whom travelled from interior settlements and coastal towns across Sarawak, successfully completed the three-month programme conducted at the Pelita Mas Laut training centre here.
Supported through Yayasan Sarawak educational loans, the participants began their training on March 30 and underwent intensive instruction in maritime fundamentals, shipboard operations and practical sea-related skills designed to prepare them for employment in the shipping and maritime sectors.
The programme concluded with a certificate presentation ceremony officiated by a representative of the Miri Marine Department, reflecting continued cooperation between training institutions and industry stakeholders in developing a future-ready maritime workforce.
Beyond the graduation ceremony, the programme highlighted a broader story of social mobility and opportunity.
The trainees represented a cross-section of Sarawak’s ethnic diversity, including Kenyah, Kayan, Melanau, Iban, Kedayan and Malay communities. They also came from widely dispersed locations such as Bako, Sebandi Ulu, Long Pilah, Kapit, Long Selatong, Dalat, Mukah and Miri.
For some participants, the training involved leaving their longhouses and hometowns for the first time in pursuit of specialised skills and long-term employment prospects.
Industry players have increasingly stressed the need to cultivate local maritime talent as demand continues to grow for skilled manpower in shipping, offshore support services and marine operations throughout the region.
The Marine Deck Apprentice programme was introduced to provide foundational exposure to the maritime sector while equipping trainees with technical competencies, discipline and operational readiness required in the industry.
As Sarawak continues to position itself as a regional economic gateway with expanding port, logistics and offshore activities, initiatives such as this are seen as crucial in ensuring local youths are not left behind in accessing emerging economic opportunities.
Meanwhile, applications for the September 2026 intake for both the Marine Deck Apprentice and Marine Engine Rating programmes are now open to aspiring candidates interested in building careers at sea.
Further enquiries may be directed to the training centre at 085-646055.
