Transport ministry to take over bunkering licence, permit approvals from Feb 2027

The transport ministry will be the sole agency responsible for approving bunkering licences and related permits starting Feb 1, 2027, says its minister Loke Siew Fook.

Loke said the move was aimed at ensuring greater clarity and consistency in the approval process.

“This will help hold operators accountable and support more consistent decision-making on safety, fuel quality and environmental protection,” he said in his speech at Malaysia Maritime Week 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Loke said the move was important to enhance the bunkering sector’s competitiveness and help fulfil the shipping industry’s needs as the world shifts to greener fuels.

Malaysia aims to become the bunkering hub of the Asia-Pacific region by 2030.

Loke said Malaysia is also working with Australia to develop policies and a legal framework for green bunkering, including the use of fuels such as liquefied natural gas, biofuel and methanol.

He emphasised that green bunkering is part of the obligations under the International Maritime Organization, which is pushing the adoption of greener fuels such as methanol, liquefied natural gas and ammonia.