Maritime students in Malaysia learned first-hand how climate action is reshaping the maritime sector during a youth event held in Johor Bahru (8 December).
The event, jointly organized by IMO's GreenVoyage2050 programme, the Malaysian Maritime Department (MMD) and the Netherlands Maritime University College (NMUC), brought together more than 60 university students and 30 maritime lecturers to discuss how shipping and ports are responding to global decarbonization efforts and how young professionals can contribute to these efforts.
The focus was on emerging career pathways and training requirements linked to low- and zero-emission fuels, port operations, digital solutions and sustainable maritime services. Participants also discussed Malaysia's role as a key maritime and logistics hub and the need for a skilled workforce to support the transition in line with the IMO 2023 GHG Strategy.
A key feature was a dialogue with Captain Emanuel, one of Malaysia's pioneering women Pilot Harbour Masters from the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP). She offered insights into her daily responsibilities, leadership experience and the evolving skills required as the sector moves toward lower-emission operations.
"If you have a dream to work in the maritime sector, find role models, stay curious and keep working towards it. The industry is changing, and there is space for more women and young people to shape its future," Captain Emanuel told participants.
Her participation underscored the importance of visible role models in attracting more women to maritime careers.
Prof. Dato' Sri Dr. Captain Razali Yaacob, Founder & Executive Chairman from the Netherlands Maritime University College added: "Connecting students with practitioners and current sustainability challenges helps them see the breadth of opportunities available in maritime careers today and the important role they can play in shaping the sector's future."
The event was part of GreenVoyage2050's wider efforts to promote awareness, inclusivity and capacity-building in maritime decarbonization, ensuring young people are equipped to support the global transition to sustainable shipping.
About GreenVoyage2050 Programme
GreenVoyage2050 is an IMO technical cooperation programme supporting developing countries in reducing GHG emissions from shipping, in line with the 2023 IMO GHG Strategy. Now in its second phase (2024-2030), the programme assists partner countries in developing National Action Plans (NAPs) and implementing pilot projects to test GHG-reduction solutions.
The programme is funded by the Governments of Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Norway and continues to expand with new partner countries each year.
