Singapore Maritime Week (SMW 2025), In a significant step to strengthen Singapore’s position as a global maritime hub, the Maritime and Ports Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) have renewed their multi-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This partnership aims to boost research and development, talent development, workforce upskilling, support for maritime startups, and regulatory alignment. The renewed collaboration, signed today, marks a comprehensive, forward-looking commitment to advancing both parties’ shared vision for a sustainable, innovative maritime sector.
ABS Singapore Maritime Safety Centre to Drive Workforce Excellence
As part of this collaboration, ABS will establish the ABS Singapore Maritime Safety Centre, a state-of-the-art training facility dedicated to enhancing the skillset of seafarers and maritime professionals. The facility, backed by an investment of USD$4.5 million, will complement the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF) established by MPA. It is expected to generate new job opportunities and contribute significantly to the region’s maritime workforce.
The ABS Singapore Maritime Safety Centre will employ the latest immersive training techniques, such as virtual reality and game-based systems, allowing for the simulation of complex training scenarios that pose no risk to vessels or crews. These advanced methods will help provide maritime professionals with hands-on experience in real-world situations, enhancing their decision-making capabilities in critical operations.
Focus on Future Technologies and Alternative Fuels
One of the key highlights of the centre will be its emphasis on next-generation maritime technologies. It will provide specialized training in the safe handling of alternative fuels, such as ammonia and methanol, as well as the deployment of battery-powered and electric propulsion systems. This initiative is aligned with the industry’s transition to net-zero emissions and will play a pivotal role in preparing professionals for the future of maritime energy.
Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman and CEO of ABS, highlighted the importance of workforce development in achieving a net-zero maritime industry: “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. Through this expanded collaboration with MPA, ABS is committed to advancing research and development, nurturing talent, and delivering world-class training that empowers seafarers and shore-based professionals alike.”
Wiernicki emphasized that Singapore’s leadership in maritime sustainability makes it the ideal partner for this mission. ABS is proud to support the METF project and looks forward to contributing to the development of the next generation of maritime professionals.
Strengthening Singapore’s Role as a Maritime Hub
Mr. Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive of MPA, echoed Wiernicki’s sentiments, emphasizing the role of collaboration in strengthening Singapore’s position as a hub for maritime innovation. “The renewal of MPA’s MOU with ABS underscores our shared vision for a sustainable and future-ready maritime sector. By combining expertise in R&D, talent development, and workforce training, we are reinforcing Singapore as a global center for maritime innovation and the upskilling of maritime professionals,” said Mr. Teo.
He also added that the addition of the ABS Singapore Maritime Safety Centre to the METF suite of training facilities will further enhance Singapore’s maritime capabilities and the industry’s workforce readiness, ensuring that the next generation of maritime professionals is prepared for emerging technologies and sustainability challenges.
Key Takeaways
This renewed collaboration between ABS and MPA marks a critical step forward in building a sustainable, innovative, and future-ready maritime sector. The establishment of the ABS Singapore Maritime Safety Centre and the continued support for workforce upskilling and research will further solidify Singapore’s leadership in the global maritime industry. By focusing on the safe handling of alternative fuels and new propulsion systems, ABS and MPA are ensuring that the maritime industry will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the evolving demands of sustainability and technological advancement.
ABS and MPA Collaboration Highlighted at Singapore Maritime Week (SMW 2025)
As part of the ongoing Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) 2025, this renewed collaboration between ABS and MPA is being highlighted during the event, which is currently underway. SMW 2025 serves as a major international gathering for the maritime community, providing a platform for thought leadership, discussions, and addressing the key challenges and opportunities facing the industry.
Organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) in collaboration with industry stakeholders, educational institutions, and research entities, SMW 2025 brings together professionals from around the world through trade exhibitions, conferences, and dialogues. This year, the event continues its focus on critical themes such as decarbonisation, digitalisation, maritime services, and talent development, reflecting the industry’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and innovation.
Source MPA Singapore