Department of Civil Aviation now known as Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia

PUTRAJAYA: The Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) is now known as the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) effective Monday (Feb 19), in line with the Government's commitment to spur the nation's aviation industry to greater heights.  

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the statutory body, which will be overseen by his ministry, would regulate the safety and security aspects, besides playing a vital role in maintaining the nation's competitive edge within the global aviation sector.  

As an independent regulatory body, he said the CAAM's responsibilities would include safeguarding civil aviation operations in the country, exercise safety regulatory oversight of the civil aviation and regulate the operation of aerodrome services and facilities in Malaysia.  

“The body will also be responsible to provide air navigation services within the Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu Flight Information Region, co-operate with any authority in charge with investigation of aircraft accidents and serious incidents,” he said in a statement here.  

Beyond the regulatory and oversight functions, Liow said the CAAM would also encourage, promote, facilitate and assist in the development and improvement of civil aviation capabilities, skills and services in the country.  

Liow said the CAAM, which commenced its operation Monday, was being helmed by its chairman Datuk Seri Azharuddin Abdul Rahman and chief executive officer Ahmad Nizar Zolfakar.  

The board members are Ir Prof Datuk Dr Chuah Hean Teik, Commander (H) Prof Datuk Razali Mahfar, Captain Ahmad Ridzwan Mohd Salleh and Captain Mohamed Azharuddin Osman.  

Liow said the Transport Ministry's deputy secretary-general (policy) and the Finance Ministry's undersecretary of Statutory Body Strategic Management division would also hold posts as permanent members of the body.  - Bernama