The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has unveiled the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF) Digital Platform, a significant initiative aimed at equipping the global maritime workforce with essential training in the safe handling of alternative marine fuels and cutting-edge technologies. The new platform, which was showcased today at the “Accelerating Digitalisation and Decarbonisation Conference” during Singapore Maritime Week (SMW), is expected to be fully operational by the second half of 2025.
Centralized Training Hub for Maritime Energy Transition
Launched as part of Singapore’s ambitious plans to support maritime decarbonisation and workforce development, the METF Digital Platform aims to facilitate training for maritime professionals worldwide. The platform was first introduced at SMW 2024 as a response to the growing need for education on emerging energy solutions, such as alternative fuels like methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen. Since then, MPA has been working with training providers, shipping companies, and maritime associations to align training programs with industry needs.
The METF Digital Platform streamlines the process of accessing training, managing certifications, and ensuring compliance with global standards. It acts as a centralised portal where maritime companies, seafarers, and other maritime professionals can easily access courses, track training progress, and monitor certifications. This system ensures that all stakeholders in the industry can remain up-to-date with evolving international safety and operational standards.
Key Features of the METF Digital Platform
The METF Digital Platform is designed to simplify and enhance the training experience for maritime professionals. It provides a systematic approach to locating relevant courses, registering, and paying for them. The platform also allows users to track their training progress and monitor compliance with industry and regulatory standards. This feature is particularly beneficial to companies and individuals seeking to ensure their operations meet the latest safety and environmental guidelines.
Furthermore, the platform reduces administrative tasks, such as managing training grant eligibility and certification issuance. Initially available to Singapore-based maritime companies and Singapore-registered ships, the platform will be expanded in the future to include international maritime stakeholders.
Currently in its prototype phase, the platform is being tested by a group of pilot users within the maritime industry. Feedback from these users will help to refine and validate the platform’s capabilities ahead of its official launch.
Supporting the Development of International Training Standards
The METF Digital Platform also plays a crucial role in supporting the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as it works to develop global training standards for handling alternative fuels. In February 2025, the IMO’s Human Element, Training, and Watchkeeping Sub-Committee began formulating guidelines for seafarer training on alternative fuels and new maritime technologies. MPA has actively contributed to this effort by proposing draft training guidelines for the safe handling of fuels like methanol and ammonia.
Drawing on Singapore’s experience in developing proficiency standards and competency frameworks, MPA has been instrumental in setting the foundation for these global standards. The METF Digital Platform will support the delivery of training courses in line with these international guidelines, ensuring that the maritime workforce is equipped with the skills and knowledge to handle new technologies safely.
The METF Digital Platform is a key components of MPA’s wider strategy to support the transition to a decarbonized maritime industry. This initiative encourage companies to prioritize environmental sustainability while also ensuring that maritime professionals are properly trained to manage and implement new, low-carbon technologies.
About Singapore Maritime Week (SMW)
Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) is an annual gathering that brings together international maritime professionals to discuss and advance key industry topics. The event serves as a platform for sharing knowledge, collaborating on solutions, and driving innovations that will shape the future of the maritime sector. Organized by MPA, SMW 2025 will focus on accelerating the transition towards a green and digital future for the maritime industry.
About the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
Established in 1996, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) plays a crucial role in advancing Singapore’s position as a global maritime hub. MPA is responsible for developing, regulating, and promoting the maritime sector, with a strong focus on digitalization, decarbonisation, and workforce development. Through initiatives like the METF Digital Platform and collaborations with industry partners, MPA is driving efforts to make the maritime industry safer, more efficient, and more sustainable.
Source MPA Singapore