HILARY HOSIA
Majuro Atoll Local Government is launching a mandatory maritime safety course for all small boats operating within Majuro lagoon and in and out of Majuro Atoll.
Satisfactory completion of the safety course will result in the issuance of the boat’s license. Boats operating without a license will subjected to penalty by MALGov.
The initiative to increase the level of maritime security stems from the recent boat incident that resulted in the loss of four people at the beginning of January.
Mayor Ladie Jack says he is trying to establish accountable and safer travel in Majuro waters by introducing an incentive that offers safety equipment to the boats at the completion of the safety course.
The equipment currently available includes 500 life jackets, 100 Personal Life Beacons (PLBs), 100 Electronic Position Information Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), 100 flashlights and strobes, 200 safety flares, 100 whistles, 100 safety bags, 100 safety checklist with reflective backing and 100 mirrors.
The equipment was donated by Marshall Islands Ports Authority, US Coast Guard and Marshall Islands Police Department.
The initiative was introduced through MALGov Ordinance 2024-05 Boat Registration which is aligned with the Domestic Water Craft Act of 2021.