KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Aviation Academy (MAvA) has fully sponsored 47 aviation technical personnel from Latin American Civil Aviation Commission (LACAC) member states to undergo technical courses, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

       The Transport Minister said that in 2022, MAvA, under the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), would continue to conduct Fatigue Risk Management System for Air Navigation Service Provider Course for LACAC member states from May 23 to 25.

       "Malaysia, being a full member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation's (ICAO) Trainair Pl7s Programme is keen to expand its training programmes in aviation.

       "The aim is to promote a cooperative and collaborative environment with regional organisations such as LACAC and ICAO in addressing the challenge of continued supply and availability of skilled personnel," said Dr Wee in a Facebook post Friday (Mar 25).

       Wee, who is in Uruguay for the LACAC meet, said Malaysia will continue to support LACAC member states by offering more courses relevant to its needs, specifically in capability building for aviation personnel.

       "I was honoured to be joined by LACAC president Armando Daniel and the incoming president Brig Gen Gaetano Battagliese, who is Uruguay Civil Aviation and Aeronautical Infrastructure national director as well as LACAC secretary Jaime Binder.

       "I informed Daniel that Malaysia will contribute US$25,000 (RM105,562) specifically to LACAC through a pledge to the ICAO's Environmental Fund," the MCA president said.

       Dr Wee said this is to assist developing countries in Latin America in improving global civil aviation and increasing environmental protection.

       "Aside from calling for LACAC support of Malaysia's ICAO Council candidature, we had a very encouraging engagement as Malaysia has much potential to grow in terms of cooperation with LACAC's 22 member block," added Dr Wee.