Malaysia has a strong foundation to become a leading ship maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) hub in ASEAN, supported by clear policies, competitive incentives, and well-planned port infrastructure, according to the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).
In a written parliamentary reply, MITI said the industry has the potential to attract high-quality investments and create skilled employment opportunities. “The government recognises the great potential of the shipbuilding and ship repair industry, particularly in shipping MRO, as a key driver of the country’s maritime economic development,” the ministry said.
Malaysia’s strategic location along the world’s busiest trade routes is expected to drive strong demand for maritime MRO services. MITI highlighted the country’s competitive operating costs, larger shipyard space, and targeted government incentives to enhance technological capabilities, making Malaysia an attractive regional alternative for maritime MRO services.
The growth of the global ship repair market, alongside expanding maritime trade, presents further opportunities for local shipyards to strengthen services for commercial vessels, tankers, container ships, and offshore support vessels.
Malaysia currently has 110 registered shipyards and at least 40 local marine equipment manufacturers, demonstrating a robust infrastructure base to support domestic and regional MRO supply chains.
