On the sidelines of the landmark 20th anniversary edition of the Malaysia International Dive Expo (MIDE 2026), a significant regional discussion was held between the Indian Ocean Divers Association (IODA) and the Malaysian Scuba Diving Association (MSDA).

The strategic meeting took place during the three-day premier marine exhibition, held from June 5th to 7th, 2026, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

Both organizations have agreed to officially cross-promote, present, and participate in events organized by their respective associations and affiliated networks. The collaboration aims to build stronger regional bridges within the diving community, focusing heavily on joint ocean initiatives, sustainable marine tourism, and areas of shared industry interest across the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asian corridors.

This meeting marks a notable step forward in regional dive tourism integration, capitalizing on MIDE’s massive platform which this year united over 190 global exhibitors and thousands of dive professionals under the banner of marine conservation and industry collaboration.