It's another feather in the cap for Westport and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB) which have both received International Shipping and Port Security (ISPS) code compliance approvals.While Westport was endorsed on May 4, PPSB obtained initial approval from the Marine Department, having complied with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) code, which became simultaneously enforceable at ports worldwide yesterday to counter terrorism.

The ISPS code creates a comprehensive framework to enhance the security of the global maritime transportation system and Westport has taken several key steps to meet its requirement.

These include enhancing security operations by establishing and maintaining a new level of Maritime Security Operations (MSO) for denial of control to selected areas, a heightened level of emergency preparedness and targeted response to the threat of terrorism.

Westport will introduce a host of maritime security measures by increasing the level of effort without degrading its readiness to increase maritime safety and environmental protection.

Westport head of fire and security Tuan Hj. Mahat Tumin said: "The changes have also strengthened our security posture, reducing the vulnerability of strategy to economic impact on all Malaysian ports.

"ISPS coding creates a more comprehensive awareness of threats and activities in the maritime domain." Westport will acquire and build critical security risk capabilities by improving core competencies on MSO and enhancing security surveillance and detection systems by upgrading the current security installation.