MPA partners Shell in clean fuels tech, automation and port digitalisation

COOPERATION in research and development, and the test-bedding of projects in clean fuel technologies, automation and digitalisation in Singapore's maritime industry is set to get a boost.

This comes with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Shell Eastern Trading Pte Ltd, which will see them collaborate on "developing innovative solutions to reduce emissions and exploring greater use of automation in the Singapore ports".

Furthermore, the study and development of digitalisation efforts - including electronic data exchanges among various stakeholders - to enhance safety, efficiency and security of maritime communication, will also be given greater support, the MPA said.

The MOU was signed by Nick Potter, Shell general manager, shipping and maritime, Asia-Pacific and Middle East, and MPA chief executive Andrew Tan, at the Singapore Maritime Institute Forum 2017, an annual event held to foster closer collaboration among industry, research institutions and solution providers.

Senior Minister of State for Transport and Health, Lam Pin Min, witnessed the signing.

Said MPA's Mr Tan: "Singapore will continue to invest in future capabilities to build up a strong maritime cluster to generate good employment opportunities and stay ahead of the competition. We are pleased to work with industry partners like Shell to drive the digital transformation of the maritime industry in Singapore in the areas of electronic data interchange, automation, intelligent systems and cleaner energy."