The 18th of May marks the International Maritime Organization (IMO) International Day For Women In Maritime. In conjunction with this event, MISC Group presents Chart Her Course 2026, an immersive walk-through experience that brings visitors on an exploration of professions in the high seas through creative and interactive exhibits that illustrate these ocean-bound jobs. Running from 19 until 24 May 2026 at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building on Jalan Raja, Kuala Lumpur, the public is invited to feel the experience for themselves while also finding out more about jobs for women in the maritime field. Entrance is free but requires pre-registration on the dedicated microsite.

Exploring Endless Possibilities For Women At Sea

If you have always wondered about professions at sea beyond being the ever-popular marine biologist or naval officer, Chart Her Course will shed some light on what other opportunities are available in the maritime work force. Going through the exhibits, visitors will get an understanding about the various jobs and perhaps be able to imagine what it might be like through 5 main sections:

• The Command Centre: A simulation of the control deck aboard a sea craft
• Fabric Wave: Provides a deep sea point of view that’s interesting to go through with its coral exhibition on the ceiling
• The occupation room where visitors learn about seafaring jobs and can pose with their own images as the featured professionals
• An audio room where visitors can listen to the experiences of various women working in the maritime industry
• The career room where various career paths are laid out and where representatives from Akedemi Laut Malaysia (ALAM – or the Malaysian Maritime Academy) are on hand to explain more to those interested in maritime-related careers

Maritime Career Opportunities For Women In Malaysia

The BIMCO/ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2021 highlighted a global talent vacuum projection for 2026, where a shortage of 89,000 maritime officers is on the horizon. What this means is that the opportunity for careers for females in the maritime industry is very wide, indeed, with this high-value vacancy on the global stage. Among the many career paths one can choose in this vast industry that intersects with many other industries are careers such as being Deck Officers, Marine Engineers, Port Operations Manager, Marine Pilots (who are not to be confused with the more popular Ship Captains – of course, another maritime career path to explore), Ship Cooks, Marine Electro Tech Officer, and Marine Logistics Manager.

About ALAM

For decades, ALAM has produced numerous trailblazers in the maritime industry – including Malaysia’s first female Captains, who manage global energy portfolios. Today, ALAM’s female cadet participation stands at 11.15%, significantly outperforming the global seafaring average of approximately 1-2%.

So if you’re looking to explore a career in the maritime industries, register at their site and make plans to head on to the Sultan Abdul Samad Building from now until 24 May 2026. Register and learn more at https://charthercourse2026.miscgroup.com/.