The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) have renewed their Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to bolster maritime innovation and workforce development. This five-year agreement, signed on 25 March, aims to enhance Singapore’s status as a global maritime hub and advance ABS’s strategic initiatives in the region.
As part of the collaboration, ABS will establish the ABS Singapore Maritime Safety Centre, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to immersive training for seafarers and maritime professionals. The centre, supported by a $4.5m investment from ABS, will offer training in the safe handling of alternative fuels like ammonia and methanol, as well as battery and electric propulsion systems. This initiative is expected to create new employment opportunities in the region.
The centre will utilise advanced training techniques, including virtual reality and game-based systems, to simulate realistic scenarios without endangering vessels or crew. Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO, emphasised the importance of this collaboration, stating, “The maritime industry’s transition to net zero demands not only innovation but also a workforce equipped to deliver all of the advances in technology and fuel without compromising safety.”
Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, highlighted the shared vision for a sustainable maritime sector, noting that the partnership strengthens Singapore as a hub for maritime innovation and professional upskilling. The ABS Singapore Maritime Safety Centre will complement the MPA’s Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF), further enhancing training capabilities.
This renewed collaboration underscores the commitment of both organisations to advancing research, talent development, and safety in the maritime industry, positioning Singapore at the forefront of maritime sustainability and innovation.
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