The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) on Thursday (5 December) said it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with MISC to strengthen collaboration in innovation, research and development (R&D) and test-bedding activities, to advance digital transformation in the maritime industry. 

The MoU was signed by Mr David Foo, Assistant Chief Executive (Operations and Operations Technology), MPA, and Mr Mohd Denny Mohd Isa, Vice President, MISC Marine, and witnessed by Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, MPA, and Mr Zahid Osman, President and Group Chief Executive Officer, MISC Berhad.

As part of the three-year arrangement, both parties will focus on integrating sustainable digital technologies into marine operations, enhancing processes through data-sharing initiatives and cybersecurity innovations. 

These include exchanging data and technology trials between MISC and MPA for tankers through the Just-in-time Planning and Coordination platform under digitalPort@SGTM, data sharing and cloud services to support the use of e-clearances and e-certificates in the Port of Singapore and onboard Singapore-registered ships and conducting cyber solution trials with the Maritime Cyber Assurance and Operations Centre.

They will also collaborate with Singapore’s vibrant research ecosystem to explore the use of artificial intelligence, digital twins, and semi-autonomous vessel operations to improve shipping efficiency and safety. 

Additionally, the partnership will prioritise talent development, identify emerging skillsets for onshore ship management, upskill seafarers to operate alternative-fuelled vessels, and ensure a future-ready workforce for the maritime industry through training under the Maritime Energy Training Facility. 

Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, said: “MISC, with its expertise in ship management and sustainable shipping practices, is a good partner for MPA to develop solutions to help digitalise and optimise shipping operations. We look forward to deepening our partnership with MISC Marine to transform the work for seafarers and professionals for more resilient and efficient shipping services.”

Mr Zahid Osman, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of MISC Berhad, said: “MISC is proud to partner with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore to accelerate the maritime industry’s transition towards a sustainable future. This MoU underscores our shared commitment to harnessing digital innovation, enhancing ship management efficiency, and preparing the workforce for advancements in alternative fuels and cutting-edge technologies.”

Photo credit: Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
Published: 6 December, 2024

Mitsui OSK Lines, Ltd. (MOL) on Tuesday (26 November) announced it signed a comprehensive memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to deepen cooperation in the fields of decarbonisation, digitalisation, and human resources development including alternative bunker fuels. 

MOL and MPA have been cooperating in various initiatives to decarbonise the maritime industry, the new agreement will further promote these initiatives in a wide range of fields.

Specifically, the scope of the MoU covers the following: 

• Collaboration in the field of decarbonisation in the maritime industry in general.

Mutual collaboration to establish a supply system for next-generation alternative bunker fuels such as methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen. The collaboration will also include study on the use of wind technology.

• Digitalisation and maritime innovation.

Improving voyage management and efficiency of transport operations through digitalisation, including development of cybersecurity, collaboration on autonomous vessel trials, and nurturing marine innovation ecosystem that emphasises collaboration with local startups.

• Joint development of maritime human resources.

Grow and enhance manpower capabilities, including grooming seafarers and shore-based workforce.

MOL will continue its group-wide concerted effort, in close cooperation with MPA and other major maritime sectors, to achieve sustainable GHG net-zero emissions and contribute to the realisation of a decarbonised society.

MPA Chief Executive Teo Eng Dih, said: “This MoU reaffirms MPA and MOL’s longstanding collaboration. As a maritime hub port, supported by our innovation and research ecosystem, MPA is working closely with industry and tripartite partners to support digitalisation, cybersecurity, decarbonisation and manpower capabilities. We look forward to MOL’s expansion of activities, tapping on both our experience and expertise, to develop scalable solutions for the SingaporeJapan Green and Digital Shipping Corridor and the wider maritime community.”

MOL President & CEO Takeshi Hashimoto, said: “We have been focusing on the fields of decarbonisation, digitalisation, and human resources development, which we have decided to deepen cooperation with MPA this time.

MPA is committed to working hard to create a sustainable maritime industry in Singapore, the hub of the maritime industry. We pay our respect to MPA for its enthusiasm and energy. The fields of bilateral cooperation are also a challenge for the maritime industry as a whole, and I hope we can increase the feasibility by working together as like-minded people.

We are confident that the establishment of this comprehensive cooperative relationship will contribute to the maritime industry in general.”

MOL’s recent cooperation with MPA includes joining a MPA-led Green & Digital Shipping Corridors (GDSC) and joining MPA’s initiative in the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF) to promote training for seafarers involved in next-generation fuel such as ammonia, which reduces carbon emissions.

Photo credit: Mitsui OSK Lines
Published: 27 November, 2024 

The Vancouver Fraser Port Authority in Canada on Friday (22 November) said it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hamburg Port Authority (HPA) in Germany to collaborate across a range of port priorities including decarbonisation, safety and cruise.

Work under the MOU will include assessing readiness to support alternative fuel bunkering, improving safety with new technology like drones, using predictive analytics to optimise operations, data governance and cyber security best practices, and opportunities for sustainable cruise port accreditation.

The MoU, signed 7 November will see the two port authorities increase cooperation across multiple key areas: maritime decarbonisation; safety; digital practices and new technology; and cruise operations.

The two port authorities will also create new opportunities for employees to gain practical experience with the daily challenges and practices at the partner port.

Both ports are major gateways for their respective countries. 

“I am delighted to have signed this agreement with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. This further expands our network of partners who want to work with us on the decarbonisation of maritime transport,” said Jens Meier, CEO of the HPA. 

“In addition, Vancouver is a valuable sparring partner for us in the exchange of efficient cruise handling within the city.”  

“The Port of Vancouver is key trade hub for Canadians and their businesses, and we are thrilled to partner with the Port of Hamburg on work that will improve operations, sustainability and safety at both ports,” said Peter Xotta, President and CEO, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. 

“We look forward to working in collaboration with our partners in Hamburg to improve efficiency, sustainability and innovation at both ports—in support of Canadians and Germans.”

Photo credit: Port of Vancouver
Published: 26 November, 2024