PETALING JAYA: Malaysia will highlight her vast maritime interest and the strategic importance of the Straits of Malacca in seeking re-election to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council under Category C for a second consecutive term.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Chan Kong Choy, who is leading a delegation to the IMO's 25th assembly in London, said in a statement that Malaysia had always given high priority to the management of the busy strait, recognised as among the vital shipping lanes of the world.
The establishment of the Cooperative Mechanism between littoral states and users on the Straits of Malacca and Singapore in September was testimony of Malaysia’s commitment in ensuring the strait remained safe and open to international shipping, he said.
Chan said Malaysia has been an IMO member since 1971 and has supported IMO initiatives including many international conventions promoting safety of shipping, maritime transport security and protection of the marine environment.
Malaysia also strongly supported the need for the IMO to further enhance its technical cooperation programme which was crucial for capacity building in the field, especially in developing nations, he said.
The election will take place tomorrow with 27 nations vying for the council seat for 2008 to 2009.
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