In order to fulfil the vision, mission and objectives, the Institute has the following functions:

• Promote and enhance excellence in marine sciences and technology;
  Enhance regional collaboration and networking in marine sciences research and development, technology and training;
• Provide specialized field and laboratory facilities to support research in marine sciences and technology;
• Provide postgraduate training and attract the best post-graduate students and postdoctoral fellows regionally and internationally to undertake research in marine sciences and technology;
• Provide opportunities to visiting researchers at regional and international levels to share and exchange experiences;
• Engage in the design and development of scientific instruments and gear technology for research, training, exploration and exploitation of coastal and marine resources;
• Disseminate research findings to industry, scientific community, public and other customers internationally;
• Provide scientific and management solutions and advice in marine sciences and technology thus promoting the use of new technologies to end users; and merging theory and practice;
• Enhance socio-economic development of communities in the coastal areas and around large water bodies in the region;
• Enhance the protection and sustainable development of the coastal and marine environment in the region.