of Maritime Academy

Introduction

From September 2009 to July 2012, I had the opportunity to be part of a dedicated team that embarked on an exciting mission to establish a new maritime academy in Malaysia. The objective of the new venture was to train and promote seaman as a good career prospect for Malaysians.

My official job title was as Human Resource & Administration Executive, however my day-to-day job scope includes:

• preparing research and paperworks for business development and marketing
• personal assistant to the CEO
• teaching assistant to lecturers (which includes experienced Captains, Chief Engineers, as well as other senior and junior officers and engineers)
• liase with officials from the Maritime Department of Malaysia
• represent the school in IMO conference
• a general IT tasks

The team ended up building two maritime training academies from scratch; namely Maritime Education & Training Academy (META) in Seri Manjung, Perak, and Maritime College (MARCO) in Selangor, Malaysia. This article delves into my experiences and the significant responsibilities I undertook during this time, including curriculum development, liaising with government authorities, managing day-to-day operations, and utilizing ship simulators as educational tools.

Building the Academy

Creating a maritime academy from scratch was a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. As a member of the team, we worked diligently to lay the foundation of the academy and shape its future. Our primary objective was to establish training programs that would prepare aspiring seafarers for the dynamic and demanding maritime industry.

Curriculum Development

One of my key responsibilities was to develop the syllabus for the basic seamanship program. This involved carefully structuring the course content to ensure comprehensive coverage of essential skills and knowledge required for a successful maritime career. Collaborating with experienced industry professionals, we created a curriculum that encompassed topics such as navigation, first aid, vessel operations, safety procedures, and maritime regulations. We also collaborated with the Fire Department for basic miritime firefighting training.

Liaising with Marine Department of Malaysia for Accreditation and Reporting

Ensuring the academy’s programs met the necessary standards and received proper accreditation was crucial. In close collaboration with officials from the Marine Department of Malaysia, I work in a team that facilitated the accreditation process, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. Regular communication with the authorities included reporting on student progress, course evaluations, and other official matters.

Managing Day-to-Day Operations

Efficient management of the academy’s day-to-day operations was essential for its smooth functioning. Overseeing administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and handling logistical arrangements became integral aspects of my role. By creating streamlined processes and maintaining a conducive learning environment, we aimed to provide students with the best possible educational experience.

Fostering Growth and Engagement Through Supervising and Coordinating Student Activities

As a teaching assistant, I had the privilege of working closely with students. I took on the responsibility of supervising and coordinating their activities, encouraging their participation in extracurricular events and fostering a sense of camaraderie among them. By organizing talks, workshops, and activity-based team-building exercises, we aimed to cultivate holistic growth and enhance their overall learning experience.

Utilizing Ship Simulators: Bridging Theory and Practice

One of the most innovative tools we employed to enhance the learning process was the use of ship simulators. These simulators allowed students to gain practical knowledge by virtually exploring different types of vessels and understanding their layouts. As a teaching assistant, I assisted lecturers in conducting virtual walkthroughs, enabling students to develop a comprehensive understanding of the maritime industry.

Conclusion

After all the ups and downs, I consider the years spent as an HRA/ Business Development Executive/ Teaching Assistant/ IT Generalist at META and MARCO were transformative and enriching. Working in a dedicated team, we played a vital role in establishing a maritime academy that aimed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in the industry. From curriculum development and liaising with government officials to managing day-to-day operations and utilizing ship simulators, each responsibility contributed to the growth and success of the academy.

This experience not only shaped my professional journey but also highlighted the importance of collaboration, innovation, and dedication in the field of maritime education.