Malaysia's First Comprehensive Yacht Safety & Registration Guideline
Published by Jabatan Laut Malaysia (Marine Department) under the
Langkawi International Yacht Registry (LIYR)
Comprehensive safety requirements aligned with IMO conventions
Positioning LIYR alongside prestigious international yacht registries
Administered from Langkawi Island under the LIYR Act 630
The Malaysia Yacht Code (MYC) is the first edition of a comprehensive guideline published by the Malaysia Marine Department (Jabatan Laut Malaysia) in September 2025. It provides standards and technical specifications for the certification, safety, inspection, and operation of yachts registered under the Langkawi International Yacht Registry (LIYR).
The MYC acts as an extension of the LIYR Act 2003 (Act 630) and was developed through consultation between industry stakeholders and the regulatory body. It is designed to enhance the credibility of the Malaysian yacht registry and position it alongside other prestigious international registries.
Certified to carry more than 12 passengers (up to 36) on international voyages
Certified to carry fewer than 12 passengers on international voyages
Commercial yachts carrying more than 12 passengers on international voyages
Includes yachts with sail rigging in addition to their own propulsion
Any pleasure yacht engaged in trade, commerce, or carrying passengers for hire (including bareboat charters) is considered a commercial yacht. Private yachts of qualifying size may use the Code as guidance.
13 chapters spanning every aspect of yacht safety and operations
Purpose, application scope, definitions, trading areas, and legal framework
Hull integrity, stability, watertight and weathertight requirements
Engine installations, electronics, unattended machinery spaces
Detection systems, firefighting equipment, structural fire safety
Survival craft, personal safety equipment, emergency drills
GMDSS requirements, radio equipment, sea area classifications
Compass, GNSS, AIS, radar systems, electronic charts
Tenders, helicopter facilities, gangways and boarding
Onboard leisure equipment safety and requirements
ISM, ISPS Code, MARPOL compliance, sanitation
STCW certification, safe manning, medical fitness
Maritime Labour Convention compliance, crew welfare
Activities and requirements not addressed by the Code
Built on the Langkawi International Yacht Registry Act 2003 (Act 630) and the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO) 1952. Where ambiguity exists between the Code and the Act, the Act takes precedence.
Covers Domestic, Near Coastal, and Unlimited Voyage categories. Yachts serving Polar Regions must additionally reference the IMO Polar Code.
Appointed under the MSO to survey, inspect, audit, and certify yachts on behalf of the Administration. Authorized agents may also handle registration and certification processes.
Yachts must carry appropriate insurance for salvage, wreck removal, pollution, and third-party liability. Non-Malaysian residents may use non-IG insurers with credible evidence of acceptance from flag states.
The Code is reviewed annually during the first 5 years of implementation, followed by biennial reviews. Stakeholders may propose amendments via the MYC Code Review Document.
Detailed supporting documents including recognized organizations, exemption forms, authorized agents, ISPS requirements, ISM notices, cyber security, and the LIYR Act itself.
The MYC is administered through the LIYR office on Langkawi Island, Kedah — the same island that hosts the Malaysia International Boat Show. For registration inquiries, contact the Marine Department directly.