Transport ministry to take over bunkering licence, permit approvals from Feb 2027
This is to ensure greater clarity and consistency in the process, says minister Loke Siew Fook.
Malaysia plans to assume sole responsibility for granting bunkering licences and relevant permits starting February 1, 2027, according to Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook. The minister emphasized that this decision aims to foster clarity and consistency in the approval process, thereby holding operators accountable and promoting uniformity in decision-making regarding safety, fuel quality, and environmental protection.
Delivered during the Malaysia Maritime Week 2026 held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Loke stated that the move is crucial to boost the competitiveness of the bunkering sector and fulfill the needs of the shipping industry as the world transitions towards greener fuels. Malaysia has set its sights on becoming the bunkering hub of the Asia-Pacific region by 2030.
In addition to this domestic shift, Malaysia is collaborating with Australia to formulate policies and a legal framework for green bunkering. This initiative encompasses the utilization of various fuels, including liquefied natural gas, biofuel, and methanol. Loke underscored that green bunkering is in line with the International Maritime Organization's mandate to promote the adoption of cleaner fuels such as methanol, liquefied natural gas, and ammonia.
Written by urgent.news from Free Malaysia Today's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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