Comprehensive Analysis of Mental Health and Psychological Well-Being Among Maritime Workers in Malaysia

Authors

  • Shahidah Ahmad Suhaimi Akademi Laut Malaysia
  • Siti Azniniza Abdullah Universiti Tenaga Nasional
  • Nur Zeyana Taib Universiti Tenaga Nasional
  • Mohd Hafis Mohamad Universiti Tenaga Nasional
  • Nurul Ain Safwah Ekey Hussain Akademi Laut Malaysia
  • Aisyah Othman Akademi Laut Malaysia
  • Zulkarnian Ahmad Akademi Laut Malaysia
  • Nadia Harnisa Abdul Rahman Akademi Laut Malaysia

Keywords:

Maritime Workers, Mental Health, Psychological Well-Being, Occupational Stress, Malaysia

Abstract

The mental health and psychological well-being of maritime workers in Malaysia have become critical concerns due to the unique and challenging nature of their work environment. This comprehensive review synthesizes literature from the past seven years to examine the prevalence, associated factors, and effective interventions related to mental health issues among Malaysian maritime personnel. The findings reveal a significant prevalence of anxiety (61%), depression (39%), and stress (28%) among maritime workers. Contributing factors include occupational stressors such as long working hours, isolation, and hazardous conditions, as well as psychosocial barriers like societal stigma and limited access to mental health resources. Economic challenges, including job insecurity 
and financial stress, and environmental factors, such as poor onboard living conditions, further exacerbate these issues. Effective interventions identified include organizational support, access to mental health services, and psychological interventions like mindfulness and self-compassion training. Policy recommendations include revising the Occupational Safety and Health Act to incorporate mental health provisions and implementing mental health off days to support workers. Enhancing community 
and social support systems is also crucial. This review underscores the urgent need for targeted mental health strategies and supportive policies to address the unique challenges faced by maritime workers in Malaysia. Future research should continue to explore these areas to develop robust evidence-based practices to enhance the mental well-being of this critical workforce.

Author Biographies

Shahidah Ahmad Suhaimi, Akademi Laut Malaysia

Faculty of Business and Management

Siti Azniniza Abdullah, Universiti Tenaga Nasional

 UNITEN Business School

Nur Zeyana Taib, Universiti Tenaga Nasional

 UNITEN Business School

Mohd Hafis Mohamad, Universiti Tenaga Nasional

UNITEN Business School

Nurul Ain Safwah Ekey Hussain, Akademi Laut Malaysia

Faculty of Business and Management

Aisyah Othman, Akademi Laut Malaysia

Faculty of Business and Management

Zulkarnian Ahmad, Akademi Laut Malaysia

Faculty of Business and Management

Nadia Harnisa Abdul Rahman, Akademi Laut Malaysia

Faculty of Business and Management

Downloads

Submitted

2025-07-12

Published

2025-07-13

How to Cite

Ahmad Suhaimi, S., Abdullah, S. A., Taib, N. Z., Mohamad, M. H., Ekey Hussain, N. A. S., Othman, A., Ahmad, Z., & Abdul Rahman, N. . H. (2025). Comprehensive Analysis of Mental Health and Psychological Well-Being Among Maritime Workers in Malaysia. ALAM Journal of Maritime Studies, 5(1), 13-18. http://www.archintsurg.com/index.php/ajms/article/view/28

How to Cite

Ahmad Suhaimi, S., Abdullah, S. A., Taib, N. Z., Mohamad, M. H., Ekey Hussain, N. A. S., Othman, A., Ahmad, Z., & Abdul Rahman, N. . H. (2025). Comprehensive Analysis of Mental Health and Psychological Well-Being Among Maritime Workers in Malaysia. ALAM Journal of Maritime Studies, 5(1), 13-18. http://www.archintsurg.com/index.php/ajms/article/view/28