Dive group wants budget allocations for safety council, more licensed guides

The Malaysia Scuba Diving Association (MSDA) has called on the government to allocate funds for a National Recreational Scuba Diving Safety Council and to increase the number of licensed dive guides as the industry continues to grow. The council would serve to coordinate safety, licensing, and emergency response efforts between agencies and industry participants.

MSDA estimates that between 800 and 1,000 licensed dive guides are needed, however, only around 200 have completed the required Island Host course to obtain a dive guide license from the tourism, arts, and culture ministry. To address this, the association is seeking government assistance to cover course fees and to host more classes in locations closer to popular diving destinations.

In addition to expanding the number of certified guides, MSDA also wants the government to provide financial support for travel and accommodation for those who live far from the training locations. Safety improvements are also a priority, with the association advocating for enhanced rescue and first-aid training, emergency oxygen equipment, improved communication tools, and safer facilities at diving sites.

Every popular diving location should have an emergency plan in place that involves dive operators, rescue teams, and healthcare providers.

Furthermore, MSDA is urging the government to invest in marketing the country's diving destinations both domestically and internationally, including at trade shows and online campaigns.