Capt. Segar: MPA launched its digital bunkering initiative on 1 November 2023 and made available mobile and cloud applications to digitalise documentation such as electronic bunker delivery notes. The electronic process enhances workflow and crew safety by reducing the need for crew members to physically transfer documents between vessels to complete the bunkering documentation process.

Another example of innovation that improves safety is maritime 5G. MPA, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), and one of our telcos, M1, have recently completed Phase 1 of their maritime 5G plans, providing coverage in our port waters around the southernmost islands. With maritime 5G, we can improve accessibility to healthcare for seafarers in our port through telemedicine and provide drone delivery of medication to seafarers. We are looking at providing full maritime 5G coverage in our major anchorages, fairways, terminals, and boarding grounds by mid-2025. This will enhance connectivity and further strengthen our digitalisation efforts.

MPA operationalised the Integrated Port Operations Command, Control, and Communications (IPOC) system on 1 March 2024, which supports operations and incident management during maritime emergencies by offering a comprehensive situational picture. Enhanced with data analytics, port inspectors can detect infringements, including speeding and unauthorised entries in restricted areas, and identify high-risk activities or vessels for more targeted enforcement actions, thereby enhancing the safety standard and environment for the crew onboard vessels.

Additionally, MPA is exploring the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to enhance surveillance and response capabilities, especially during maritime emergencies. Today, UAVs are widely used in the maritime industry to deliver urgent, high-value goods to vessels at the anchorages, including prescribed medicine following telemedicine consultation. UAVs are also deployed to inspect hard-to-reach areas on vessels like the ship’s mast, superstructure, and hull.

MPA is also collaborating with BeeX, a Singapore-based deep-tech engineering company, to map and provide a comprehensive view of the subsea environment. With the increasing use of underwater drones, the ability to better visualise the subsea environment will enable safe navigation and active management of underwater drone operations, such as seabed infrastructure and underwater inspections.