Safety of waterway transportation in Terengganu (a case study on tourism)

Abstract

Terengganu state with several resort islands requires means to transfer tourists to and from the islands. This study deals with different facets of the maritime transportation in the prospective of the authority (Marine Department), boat operators, crew and tourists particularly on the aspects of safety. Safety awareness case study was based on direct observation, survey through interviews and filling up of questionnaires which were conducted over a period of five months at the main departure points to the resort islands (Kuala Terengganu, Setiu, Marang, and Besut). The output of the survey indicates while the passengers are aware on the importance of safety, scheduled briefing on safety have not being practiced consistently and through check of safety equipment before departure. In the study, the awareness among all the parties was determined based on the result. The result of the study indicates boat operators and passengers are aware of safety although they are taken likely at the departure point. The passenger vessels indicate in compliance with safety requirements and equipped with safety equipment like life jacket. But, safety procedure and briefing have not been taken seriously. And this should be made mandatory for the benefit of passengers and the marine tourism industry in Terengganu.