Foster a Safety-First Culture in Scuba Diving, Says Ministry

20 July 2025

KOTA KINABALU: A safety-first culture must be cultivated in all activities, especially those involving risk.

Datuk Josie Lai, Permanent Secretary of the Sabah Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Environment said, “The ocean is a treasure we are fortunate to have, but it also brings with it responsibilities, particularly in ensuring the safety and well-being of those who venture into its depths.

“Diving is not merely a sport or hobby; it is a discipline that requires knowledge, preparation, and, above all, a deep respect for safety protocols.

“Today’s programme is an excellent initiative that brings together divers, professionals, and enthusiasts to raise awareness on medical and safety issues related to diving,” she said.

Lai was speaking at the opening of the Safety Medical Talk 1.0, organised by the Sabah Dive Squad Club at Dewan Sekafi, Galeri Azman Hashim (GAH), Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS).

She added that topics ranging from basic first aid to dive-related medical emergencies were not only informative but could one day help save lives.

Among the invited speakers were scuba diving medical adviser Lt Col (Dr) Eugene Tan Choon Li; technical diving adviser and First Warrant Officer Almudi Eskal; marine conservationist Monica Chin; and the Ministry’s Senior Principal Assistant Secretary, Mohd Hisham Ujang.

Mohd Hisham presented the Ministry’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) for scuba diving.

Meanwhile, club president Sim Fui expressed his gratitude to the Ministry for its trust and to other co-sponsors for their continued support in promoting safe and sustainable diving.

“Recent unfortunate incidents involving scuba divers in Sabah serve as a stark reminder that danger can arise at any depth. Whether it’s separation, underwater emergencies, or medical distress, we must always be prepared, not just as individuals, but as a collective community.

“Beyond diving, our club has taken on a broader role as an advocate for ethical and sustainable diving. We have released several public statements through newspapers and social media to reinforce our commitment to protecting Sabah’s rich marine biodiversity.

“We believe diving is a privilege, and with that privilege comes responsibility, to the environment, the community, and to one another.”

The event was co-organised with Universiti Malaysia Sabah and the Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI).

Approximately 100 participants attended, including members of the club, dive operators, medical practitioners, university lecturers and students, marine professionals, and officers from the Marine Police, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia, Royal Malaysian Navy, and other related government agencies.