| Fizah HAB |
MINISTER of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat has welcomed current developments in the local shipping industry, which he said was in line with the laws and regulations of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
The minister was speaking during the annual observation of World Maritime Day at the Muara Ports Department yesterday, which also coincided with the official opening of a new wing to the department’s headquarters.
Also in attendance was Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Communications Haji Azhar bin Haji Ahmad.
“According to the data recorded by the Department of Economic Planning and Development (JPKE), the total imports and exports of Brunei Darussalam in 2015 were worth as much as $13 billion,” the minister said, adding that “almost 90 per cent of these goods were imported by ship.
“The country’s chief export of oil and gas also relies on sea shipping, which clearly shows that shipping is an important factor towards development and economic growth.”
Minister of Communications Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat inaugurating the official opening of the new wing to the Muara Ports Department headquarters. – FIZAH HAB
The event continued with a video presentation on World Maritime Day, which was followed by a presentation of certificates by the minister to 14 registered ship owners for their services in accordance with IMO provisions.
The guests then departed to the Muara Port and jetty, where they boarded a ship for a cruise along the Brunei River up to Dermaga Diraja in the capital, focusing on the development of several projects connected to the local maritime industry.
World Maritime Day is an annual celebration to promote the importance of maritime security, shipping safety and a healthy marine environment, in keeping with the standards set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
This year, the celebration carries the theme ‘Shipping: Indispensable to the World’.
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