The association of Malaysian’s Maritime Professionals (IKMAL) has suggested that Malaysian’s

seafarers must be given the opportunity to get their vaccination in the first rst phase of the National
covid19 immunisation Programme. By that seafarers would be able to return to serve on board ships
and continue to support the critical maritime transport supply chain. More than that, the move
could also reduce the travel restrictions imposed on the seafarers. This matter should be given
attention because, the maritime transportation sector played a critical economic role and provided
vital logistic support during the pandemic. Other than that , there are more than 400,000 seafarers
globally who are trapped on board their vessels and were unable to return to their home countries
upon completion of their service contracts due to travel restrictions. As a result the seafarers should
be given the priority to receive the Covid 19 vaccination as soon as possible.