IMPLEMENTATION OF SEAWORTHINESS STANDARDS FOR TRADITIONAL SHIPPING VESSELS BY THE HARBORMASTER AT SUNGAI GUNTUNG PORT: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF REGULATIONS AND TRADITIONAL SAFETY PRACTICES

Abstract

This study examines the legal framework, implementation, obstacles, and solutions concerning the Harbormaster's enforcement of seaworthiness standards for traditional shipping vessels at Sungai Guntung Port. It compares formal regulations with traditional safety practices through normative-empirical legal research using statutory, conceptual, empirical, and comparative approaches. Data were obtained through library research, semi-structured interviews, limited field observation, and documentation, and were analyzed qualitatively through data reduction, presentation, and deductive-inductive interpretation. The findings show that supervision is grounded in shipping legislation and implemented through document verification, physical inspections, cargo supervision, safety guidance, and the issuance of Sailing Approval Letters. Implementation nevertheless remains incomplete because of limited inspection personnel and facilities, owners' financial constraints, delayed certification, inadequate safety equipment, and reliance on inherited operating practices. Local knowledge of weather, currents, and waterways contributes to practical caution but cannot replace technical inspection or mandatory safety requirements. The study proposes collaborative maritime safety through continuous guidance, risk-based inspection, institutional strengthening, assistance with safety equipment, and gradual standardization. These measures seek to align traditional practices with national requirements without reducing the protection of vessels, crews, passengers, cargo, and the maritime environment.