KUALA LUMPUR – A total of 18 Malaysian offshore seafarers, who are also members of the Malaysian Offshore Seafarers Association (MOS), are currently reported to be on duty in several operational areas in West Asia that have now been categorised as conflict zones.
MOS president Capt. Tunku Ismail Tunku Yahaya said the information was obtained through the association’s network of members who are currently serving on oil and gas industry support vessels in the region.
He said that so far, most of them are continuing their operations as usual, with strict safety monitoring by shipping companies and vessel management.
“The offshore industry has specific safety procedures for operations in high-risk areas, and these are always monitored by operators and shipping companies,” he told Bernama.
According to him, MOS, which has more than 1,200 members, has also been informed that the seafarers are stationed at several operational locations, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates sector covering Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
However, he said the safety and welfare of Malaysian seafarers must always remain a priority, especially for those working in high-risk areas.
“MOS hopes that shipping companies and operators will ensure that seafarers stationed in high-risk areas are provided with appropriate protection, including in terms of safety, insurance coverage and compensation related to operations in conflict zones,” he said.
Meanwhile, he said the association will continue to monitor the evolving situation and maintain communication with its members in the operational areas to ensure their safety.
Tensions in West Asia have continued to escalate since Feb 28, when Israel and the United States (US) launched attacks on Iran, triggering retaliatory strikes by Tehran against US interests in Gulf countries. – March 13, 2026