CAAM launches State Safety Programme
SSP main reference for aviation industry service providers, says Wee
By The Edge Markets, Sept 13 2022
SEPANG (Sept 13): The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) on Tuesday (Sept 13) launched the “State Safety Programme” (SSP) as the main safety-related reference for service providers in the aviation industry.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong, who officiated the SSP here, said the document prepared by the CAAM contained policies, instructions, procedures, management control, the process of documenting information and corrective measures that were clear and organised.
It will be a reference for service providers including airlines, airport operators, air traffic control service providers, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul service providers, government agencies providing civil aviation services, and training institutions.
Wee said the document is also part of the government’s efforts to fulfill the country’s obligations based on the provisions in Annex 19 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), as well as in preparation for the upcoming Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme-Continuous Monitoring Approach (USOAP-CMA).
The ICAO, in Annex 19 (safety management) of the Chicago Convention, stipulates among other things that all contracting countries should prepare an SSP document as a guide for the implementation of the National Safety Programme, to achieve compliance with the safety standards of the national civil aviation industry.
“Malaysia as an ICAO contracting state is responsible for developing and implementing the SSP to ensure safe, integrated and modern aviation,” said Wee.
He said to date, five of 39 Asia Pacific contracting countries have fully implemented the SSP and that Malaysia is committed to doing so in 2023.
“The aspect of safety and security is one of the most important things in ensuring the growth of the aviation industry,” he said.
On Malaysia’s preparations to retain a seat in ICAO in its election scheduled to take place at the end of this month, Wee, who was met after launching the SSP, said the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and industry players would try their best amid fierce competition.
Wee is expected to lead the Malaysian delegation to the 41st ICAO Triennial Assembly, which will be held in Canada from Sept 27 to Oct 13.
