Singapore's MPA and ABS agree maritime technology MoU

Under the agreement, MPA and ABS will collaborate on projects relating to decarbonisation, AI-driven decision support tools, predictive maintenance, cyber security and other cutting-edge technologies critical to the port.

ABS said both parties will also work together to develop the next-generation maritime workforce in Singapore, by rolling out relevant industry attachments and training programmes, as well as studying the impact of new technologies on the workforce and efficiency of augmented/virtual reality tools when used in training environments.

MPA chief executive Quah Ley Hoon said “For Maritime Singapore to thrive, we must continue to maintain a vibrant ecosystem where companies see value [on which] to base [their] activities."

"This MoU strengthens our partnership with ABS, which has a long-standing presence in Singapore. I look forward to both organisations contributing towards Singapore’s growth as a leading international maritime centre through knowledge creation and technology applications.”

ABS vice president, Singapore Innovation and Research Center, Dr Gu Hai said “The MPA is the perfect partner as we look to build on this work and further enhance Singapore’s status as a global maritime hub able to meet the demands of tomorrow’s marine industry.”

This year, the MPA launched the Maritime GreenFuture Fund to accelerate efforts in research, test-bedding, and promoting the adoption of low-carbon technologies. Singapore aims to reduce emissions and take the lead in maritime sustainability as countries seek to meet IMO’s emissions reductions target.

The authority is also working with Nanyang Technological University’s EcoLabs Centre of Innovation for Energy to support start-ups specialising in decarbonisation and sustainability to bridge their transition from the lab to the market.