Maritime connectivity plays a crucial role in driving economic growth throughout the region, said Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications Ir Haji Mohammad Nazri bin Haji Mohammad Yusof.
He said this during the opening of the 47th ASEAN Maritime Transport Working Group (MTWG) Meeting yesterday.
The permanent secretary highlighted initiatives, such as the Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity, pivotal in strengthening logistical networks, facilitating trade and promoting tourism, ultimately fostering deeper ASEAN integration.
He also addressed the challenges posed by climate change and digital transformation within the maritime sector and called for enhanced collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the safety, sustainability and resilience of maritime operations in the region.
Meanwhile, Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD) Chief Executive Captain (Rtd) Zil Husam bin Haji Abdul Rahman reaffirmed the Sultanate’s commitment to enhancing maritime connectivity and sustainability within the ASEAN region.
The meeting discussed transport development strategies, sustainable maritime transport initiatives and collaboration with the private sector to address emerging maritime challenges.
This year’s meeting aims to drive significant changes across the Sultanate and ASEAN by improving regional maritime cooperation, optimising port operations and enhancing port security, which will ultimately support a robust economic growth.
The ASEAN Transport Action Plan 2026-2030, adopted during the meeting, is set to play a critical role in advancing sustainable and secure maritime transport systems, ensuring economic prosperity and environmental sustainability for the region.
The meeting, which continues today, marks a key milestone in strengthening regional collaboration and advancing maritime development in line with ASEAN’s goals of increased connectivity and economic integration.
MPABD’s Assistant Chief Executive Salmaya Rahayu binti Salleh chaired the meeting and welcomed delegation heads from ASEAN member states, dialogue partners, representatives from the ASEAN Secretariat and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Brunei Darussalam, through MPABD, will continue to lead the ASEAN MTWG during its two-year term, reaffirming its commitment to shaping the future of maritime transport in the region. The chairmanship will be passed to Cambodia in 2026.
The ASEAN MTWG will be followed by an ASEAN-United States workshop on ‘Developing Sustainable Ports through Policy, Planning, Partnerships and Innovation’ on September 19-20. – Azlan Othman
