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

The Malaysia Scuba Diving Association (MSDA) has called on the government to boost funding for a National Recreational Scuba Diving Safety Council and licensed dive guides as the industry expands. In a statement, MSDA highlighted the need for such council to coordinate safety, licensing, and emergency response among agencies and industry stakeholders.

The association estimates that between 800 to 1,000 licensed dive guides are required, but currently, only around 200 people have completed the necessary Island Host course for obtaining a dive guide license from the tourism, arts, and culture ministry. To make this course more accessible, MSDA urges the government to cover fees and conduct additional sessions near islands and coastal regions.

Additionally, the association seeks travel and accommodation assistance for those residing farther away. MSDA also advocates for enhanced safety measures, including improved rescue and first-aid training, emergency oxygen supply, advanced communication equipment, and safer jetties and boat infrastructure. Every diving site should have a comprehensive emergency and evacuation plan, involving dive operators, rescue teams, and healthcare providers.

To promote Malaysia's diving destinations both domestically and internationally, the association seeks increased financial support for local and overseas marketing campaigns, including participation in international exhibitions. With over 800 companies engaged in marine recreation and scuba diving nationwide, serving more than 500,000 divers, the MSDA emphasizes the importance of bolstering safety and service quality to attract more tourists.