Malaysia eyes bigger role in global seabed mapping

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is expanding its global influence in ocean mapping through a major international gathering and data sprint. The Seabed 2030 Indo-Pacific Ocean Mapping Meeting and Data Sprint 2026, hosted by the Royal Malaysian Navy, convened 250 delegates from 33 nations to enhance mapping efforts and data sharing. The event's signing of a memorandum of understanding on electronic navigational charts and a data-sharing agreement with Indonesia and Japan underscores Malaysia's commitment to ocean mapping.

Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain, head of the Royal Malaysian Navy, emphasized the significance of the ocean to Malaysia's identity, economy, and security, stating that effective maritime policy hinges on understanding and safeguarding the maritime domain. The Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 Project, aiming for comprehensive seabed mapping by 2030, has identified a substantial knowledge gap of over 70% in global ocean floor mapping.

Malaysia's allocation of funds for two new survey motor launches and the establishment of its first national research vessel are seen as strategic investments in the country's maritime future. Despite the importance of data sharing, delegates stressed the need to respect national requirements, security considerations, data ownership, and agreed conditions of use.

The meeting builds on a preceding event in Fiji, aiming to fortify Malaysia's role as a regional hub for seabed mapping and marine geospatial cooperation.