Journal of Maritime Logistics

FACTORS INFLUENCING DOMESTIC FERRY CASUALTIES IN LANGKAWI, MALAYSIA

TING SIEW CHEONG — 2026-08-24

Domestic ferry services played a vital role in providing essential transportation for local communities and supporting tourism activities in Langkawi, Malaysia. Ferry operations were exposed to various safety risks that might result in casualties and operational disruptions. This study examined the influence of human factors, environmental conditions, mechanical failures, organisational factors and technical knowledge on domestic ferry casualties in Langkawi. A quantitative research approach was adopted, and data were collected from 186 ferry operators using a structured questionnaire through purposive sampling. The data were analysed using descriptive analysis, Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis using SPSS version 29. The correlation results indicated that all independent variables had positive and statistically significant relationships with domestic ferry casualties, with environmental conditions recording the strongest correlation (r = 0.601, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that environmental conditions were the only factor with a statistically significant effect in influencing domestic ferry casualties. Human factors, mechanical failures, organisational factors and technical knowledge did not demonstrate significant predictive effects in the regression model. The findings highlighted the dominant influence of environmental conditions such as tidal variations, sea state and weather patterns on ferry casualties in Langkawi. The study provided valuable insights for maritime authorities, ferry operators, and policymakers to strengthen weather-related risk management, improve operational decision-makingdecision-making, and enhance preventive safety measures for domestic ferry operations. Future research was recommended to expand the geographical scope, utilise mixed research methods, and further incorporate qualitative insights to improve understanding of domestic ferry casualty risks in Malaysia.

DETERMINANTS OF PASSENGERS’ SAFETY AWARENESS ON DOMESTIC FERRIES: EVIDENCE FROM PANGKOR ISLAND, MALAYSIA

YUN HUI WONG — 2026-08-24

Recent statistics indicate a rising trend of ferry-related accidents in Malaysian waters, raising concerns about passenger safety in domestic ferry operations. Despite increasing passenger volumes, particularly at high-traffic destinations such as Pangkor Island, empirical research on passengers’ safety awareness remains limited, as prior studies have largely focused on crew safety and operational management. This gap constrains understanding of passengers’ preparedness and compliance with onboard emergency procedures. This study examined the factors influencing passengers’ safety awareness on domestic ferries in Pangkor Island, with particular emphasis on situational awareness, wayfinding, safety information, and safety delivery, grounded in the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and supported by situational awareness theory, SERVQUAL, and cognitive mapping theory. Data were collected from 420 respondents using a convenience sampling technique. Descriptive analysis using SPSS version 29 was conducted to explore the demographic characteristics of respondents. Pearson correlation analysis was applied to determine the relationships between the independent variables and passengers' safety awareness. In contrast, multiple linear regression analysis was employed to examine the relative influence of each factor. The findings revealed that all four independent variables had a significant positive impact on passengers' safety awareness. Among the variables examined, wayfinding emerged as the most influential predictor (β = 0.375) followed by safety information, situational awareness and safety delivery. This study provides valuable insight for ferry operators seeking to improve safety information through improved facilities, signs, and safety briefings, thereby enhancing safety management practices and operational effectiveness, and informing policy improvements for ferry operators and maritime authorities. Future research could explore a broader geographical area, adopt longitudinal research and utilise mixed methods to deepen understanding of this issue and further strengthen passenger-centred safety strategies in domestic ferry operations.

THE STUDY OF GREEN LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE INDEX: FREIGHT TRANSPORTATION INDUSTRY AT PADANG BESAR CONTAINER TERMINAL (PBCT)

MOHD AZRIL ISMAIL — 2026-08-24

This research introduces the Green Logistics Performance Index (GLPI), a benchmarking tool intended to evaluate the extent to which companies employ environmentally friendly logistics practices. The GLPI, which combines the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) with the Environmental Performance Index (EPI), is a comprehensive metric inspired by The World Bank’s LPI. The GLPI aligns with the Malaysian National Transport Policy (2019–2030) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. If Malaysia does not adopt green logistics techniques, the GDP of the country may suffer. The study uses quantitative data analysis in a cross-sectional, descriptive manner. At the Padang Besar Container Terminal, a questionnaire is used to collect data. Mean scores, correlation, regression, and ANOVA are among the statistical analyses used. The results show a moderate to high degree of Green Administration, Green Technology, Green Transportation, and Green Logistics Performance Index with good reliability as indicated by the Cronbach Coefficient Alpha Values of GLPI (.862), GA (.888), GT (.737), and GTR (.755). The study's conclusions add to the expanding corpus of information on green logistics and lay the groundwork for future investigations and the formulation of new regulations aimed at achieving ecologically friendly supply chain practices.

MARITIME TRANSPORT PERFORMANCE AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN NIGERIA

OGOLA DANIEL BEKESUOMOWEI — 2026-08-24

Maritime transport is also important in international trade and economic development, especially in coastal economies like Nigeria, where seaports are the main points of entry and exit for imports and exports. Although Nigeria is strategically located in a maritime setting and there have been efforts to transform and enhance the efficiency of its ports, there are still concerns about the efficiency of marine operations in relation to the industry's ability to sustain economic growth. This paper investigates the connection that exists between the performance of maritime transport and economic growth in Nigeria during the period of 1995 and 2022. In particular, it determines the effect of cargo throughput, ship calls, and gross registered tonnes on the real gross domestic product (RGDP) and considers the influence of the port turnaround time on economic growth. The Nigerian Ports Authority, Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin, National Bureau of Statistics, and UNCTAD maritime statistics databases were used to get annual time-series data. The research utilises the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) modelling framework in order to estimate short-run and long-run links between the variables. Unit root tests using the Augmented Dickey-Fuller (ADF) method were performed to test stationarity, and then the ARDL bounds test was conducted to test cointegration. The diagnostic tests and Error Correction Models (ECM) were also conducted to make the models reliable and stable. The findings show that there are substantial long-run relationships between cargo throughput and gross registered tonnage and Nigeria's real GDP; hence, cargo volumes and ship capacity positively impact economic growth. However, the effect of ship calls is not statistically significant. Moreover, port turnaround time indicates a strong negative correlation to economic growth, meaning that the longer the vessel takes to be processed, the worse the economic performance. This research concludes that to enhance the economic growth of Nigeria, maritime operational efficiency should be improved. The proposed policy to improve the productivity and competitiveness of the maritime industry in Nigeria is investment in port infrastructure, improved cargo processing, and the creation of regulations that would help reduce the turnaround time of vessels.

THE UNSEEN STORM: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF CYBERSECURITY THREATS AND THEIR ECONOMIC IMPACT ON GLOBAL MARITIME TRADE

MUHAMMAD JAHANZAIB SULTAN — 2026-08-24

The maritime industry, the silent engine of global trade, is undergoing a profound digital transformation, often referred to as Shipping 4.0 (Mesa et al., 2024). This significant shift involves the widespread adoption of digital, interconnected operating environments known as Cyber-physical Systems. While this technological leap has brought about remarkable improvements in efficiency and competitiveness, it has also, ironically, exposed the sector to a new wave of complex cybersecurity threats. This critical review paper delves into the rapidly changing landscape of maritime cyber threats and, crucially, assesses their tangible economic impact on global maritime trade. Our investigation begins by mapping out the primary vulnerabilities found in both shipboard and port-side systems. We pay special attention to mission-critical technologies like the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS), GNSS, and automated cargo-handling infrastructure. Key real-world incidents, such as the devastating NotPetya attack on A.P. Moller-Maersk, are analysed not only to illustrate the threat but also to provide an empirical basis for quantifying the full spectrum of costs. These costs include staggering direct financial losses, widespread trade disruption, significant reputational damage, and an inevitable rise in insurance premiums across the sector. Furthermore, the study critically reviews existing global policy and regulatory frameworks, specifically examining the effectiveness of instruments like the IMO Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Risk. This analysis highlights critical gaps in their practical implementation, particularly the persistent lack of economic incentives needed to encourage robust, industry-wide security investments. Ultimately, this paper concludes by offering strategic, economically sound recommendations designed to foster strong cyber-resilience, which is vital for protecting the integrity and efficiency of the critical maritime supply chain in this fast-evolving digital age.

MARITIME SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY IN THE STRAITS OF MALACCA AND SINGAPORE: A REVIEW

LUTFI A RAHAMAN — 2026-08-24

The Straits of Malacca and Singapore (SOMS) are among the world’s busiest and most vulnerable maritime corridors, carrying over 94,000 vessels annually and facing persistent risks from collisions, oil spills, and transnational threats. This review contributes by synthesising Malaysia’s role in SOMS safety and sustainability through six themes linking governance, technology, and environmental protection: Navigation safety, environmental protection and oil spill response, sovereignty and security, regional and international cooperation, marine spatial planning, and socioeconomic significance. The review was conducted using the PSALSAR framework and PRISMA methodology: 2,800 records were identified; 81 remained after initial screening; 72 were retained after relevance screening; and 66 studies met the methodological evaluation criteria and were included in the final review. Findings highlight Malaysia’s initiatives, including SISPELSAT and SBAS/DGNSS for navigation, the MyMarine GeoHub and S-100 transition for integrated maritime governance, and the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan for environmental response, with Malaysia’s convening role reinforced at the 16th Cooperation Forum (2025). However, although cooperation exists through the Tripartite Technical Experts Group (TTEG) and the Cooperative Mechanism, funding contributions, data-sharing, and sovereignty sensitivities remain key limitations, alongside systemic challenges such as human factor risks, uninsured vessels, compensation gaps, and uncertainties from the global energy transition. By consolidating fragmented research and aligning it with emerging industrial practices and S-100 standards, this review advances academic discourse on maritime governance in congested chokepoints and offers policy insights for balancing global trade imperatives with safety, sovereignty, and environmental stewardship.