KL Cermin Training Vessel Resumes Operations After RM10.14 Million Upgrade

The training vessel KL Cermin, operated by the Malaysian Fisheries Academy, is back in service following extensive refurbishment and upgrades costing RM10.14 million. This investment aims to bolster training and human capital development within Malaysia's vital fisheries sector.

Datuk Adnan Hussain, Director-General of Fisheries, highlighted that KL Cermin is a modern training ship with a gross tonnage of 160 metric tons. It is specifically designed to facilitate practical training, research, and competency development crucial for the fisheries industry. The RM10.14 million expenditure covered significant improvements, including a new engine, upgraded operational systems for its purse seine net, and the acquisition of new net equipment to ensure optimal performance.

The vessel's primary equipment includes a purse seine net system measuring 1,300 meters (1.3 kilometers) long, with a net depth of up to 70 meters. This setup allows for realistic simulations of commercial fishing operations at sea. To further enhance training and navigation efficiency, KL Cermin is fitted with the latest CH-600 sonar system, enabling more accurate and efficient detection of fish schools and seabed mapping.

KL Cermin recently completed a journey from Kuala Penyu, Sabah, to Kuala Terengganu, taking approximately five days and four hours with a crew of 12, maintaining an average speed of 10 knots. With a diesel capacity of 22,000 liters, the ship can operate at sea for up to 10 consecutive days. It is scheduled for eight major voyages each year, including two for students in the Fisheries Certificate Program and the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) Level 3 in Fishing Operations, two for instructor competency enhancement, two for oceanographic research, and two for targeted group skill improvement in collaboration with the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM).