The global maritime sector is undergoing rapid transformation. Advances in digital technology, vessel automation, artificial intelligence, smart navigation systems, decarbonisation efforts, and increasingly stringent safety and sustainability requirements are reshaping the maritime industry. These changes are affecting not only vessel and port operations, but also the competencies and knowledge required of the maritime workforce of the future.

In response to these developments, the Faculty of Maritime Studies (FPM) continues to strengthen its role as a centre for maritime education, research, and knowledge transfer aligned with national needs in the international maritime industry.

FPM integrates maritime education with a range of related fields, including maritime management and operations, maritime safety and security, navigation, sea transportation, maritime technology, maritime law and governance, logistics, sustainability and the blue economy. This approach ensures that graduates understand conventional maritime operations and are prepared for an increasingly complex and technology-driven industry environment.

Recent developments in Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), remote vessel operations, artificial intelligence and maritime data integration are opening new dimensions. These technologies require a balance between innovation and safety, human competency, legislation, and governance. Maritime education institutions therefore must ensure that technological development progresses alongside human capital development.

In research, FPM continues to focus on issues of direct relevance to Malaysia. These include navigational safety, maritime risk assessment, maritime safety and security, digitalisation, sea transportation, maritime governance, marine environmental protection, recreational boating and marina operations, as well as sustainable maritime development.

The distinctiveness of FPM’s research lies in its approach of connecting academic research with real-world challenges. Engagement with government agencies, maritime authorities, industry players, port and marina operators, and maritime communities enables research undertaking based on stakeholders’ actual needs. This approach creates opportunities for research outcomes to contribute to improvements in maritime operations, safety, policy and governance in the country.

Malaysia holds a highly strategic position as a maritime nation, with extensive waters and a location near some of the world’s busiest international shipping routes. Also, the growth of the blue economy, marine tourism, recreational boating, smart vessel technology and the transition towards green shipping is creating new opportunities requiring expertise and skilled workforce.

FPM will continue to strengthen university–government–industry partnerships, expand its international networks, and develop impactful research for society and industry. Students’ exposure to real-world industry environments will continue to be enhanced to produce graduates who are competent, adaptable, and prepared to navigate the transformation of the maritime sector.

Through quality education, impactful research, and strategic partnerships, FPM will continue to strengthen UMT’s position as a university focused on marine science and aquatic resources, while becoming a key reference point for the development of the maritime sector in Malaysia and the wider region.

Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Ahmad Faizal bin Ahmad Fuad 
Dean,
Faculty of Maritime Studies