|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and a Japanese shipping company solidified their commitment to advancing the maritime industry’s sustainability, digitalisation, and manpower development through a new memorandum of understanding (MoU).
The agreement, signed by Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, and the President and Group Chief Executive of the company, marks a significant step forward in promoting eco-friendly maritime practices and ensuring a skilled workforce for the future.
This partnership aligns with the International Maritime Organisation’s revised Greenhouse Gas Strategy 2023, the Paris Agreement, and other international climate goals. MPA and the company plan to promote the safe use of alternative maritime fuels, such as biofuels, methanol, and low or zero-carbon ammonia. The phased approach to introducing these fuels aims to ensure safety and efficiency while significantly reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.
Recognising the need for specialised skills to manage these new technologies, both organisations will develop comprehensive training programs for seafarers. These programs will focus on operating ammonia-fueled vessels and other sustainability-related competencies. Additionally, leadership programs will be introduced to equip local professionals with the necessary skills to support the industry’s transition towards alternative low or zero-carbon fuels.
Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, emphasised the significance of this collaboration, describing it as a major milestone in the enduring partnership between MPA and the company. He noted that, as a leading bunkering and maritime hub port, Singapore is currently focused on introducing alternative fuels and advancing manpower development.
Teo expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to harness their combined strengths to create scalable solutions that will benefit the global maritime community in its transition towards smart and sustainable shipping.
The President and Chief Executive Officer of the company expressed alignment with MPA’s goals, highlighting the company’s proactive efforts in decarbonisation, digitalisation, and maritime human resource development to achieve a sustainable maritime industry. They have initiated ammonia-fuel-related business development, including bunkering projects, in support of the Singaporean government’s fuel ammonia initiative.
Recognising Singapore’s pivotal role as the world’s largest hub port for transhipment and bunkering, he noted that the conclusion of this MoU with MPA will accelerate their cooperation and contribute significantly to the sustainable development of the maritime industry.
Digitalisation is another critical aspect of the partnership. The MoU emphasises the integration of advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. By leveraging digital tools and innovative solutions, MPA and the company aim to streamline maritime operations, improve safety, and reduce environmental impact.
Manpower development remains a cornerstone of the MoU, with a focus on equipping the current and future workforce with the skills needed to navigate the evolving maritime landscape. Through targeted training and leadership programs, the partnership seeks to foster a knowledgeable and resilient workforce capable of driving the industry towards a sustainable future.
This collaboration between MPA and the company reflects a shared commitment to addressing the maritime industry’s pressing challenges. By working together, the organisations aim to create scalable solutions that promote sustainability, enhance digital capabilities, and ensure a skilled workforce. This partnership sets a precedent for other industry players, demonstrating the power of collaboration in achieving common goals.
The MoU between MPA and the company represents a significant stride towards a sustainable and innovative maritime industry. As the partnership unfolds, it is expected to yield substantial benefits not only for Singapore and Japan but for the global maritime community as a whole. Through continued cooperation and a shared vision for the future, MPA and the company are poised to lead the way in maritime sustainability and innovation.
