Public perception on seafaring career for women

Abstract

Malaysia is located in the middle of east and west trade route via Malacca Straits; one of the busiest straits in the world. This has given an advantage to Malaysia and his neighbouring countries like Singapore and Indonesia to exploit the strategic location of their country. With the increasing number of handled cargo each year, Malaysia has the opportunity to enhance their shipping industry. However, it was reported in 2010, 70% to 80% of total Malaysia's trade were still carried by foreign shippers [The Star on line, 17/10/2010] besides, only 50% of all Malaysian fleet were operated by Malaysian whereby, the rest were operated by foreigners [Harian Metro, 11/02/2012] and it is due to lack of interest among younger generations to take up a career in this field [New Straits Time, 18/10/2010]. Therefore, this research was conducted to find the public perception on seafaring career for women, because by opening another window to people, hopefully there will be more Malaysian to join field. Fortunately, after comparing public perceptions on a career as seamen between real women seafarer themselves, it is found that this career is suitable for women to step into with some conditions.