SSA Vision2030
The SSA held its 28th AGM meeting on 28 June 2024, which was attended by over 160 members. The 2023/2025 Council, under the leadership of Ms. Caroline Yang, President of SSA, shared with members the outcomes of an important consultative exercise that culminated in Vision2030 SSA – a refreshed vision and strategic direction. A series of surveys and focus group discussions were conducted with representatives from 68 member companies, who gave their inputs and suggestions on mid to long term initiatives that SSA can undertake moving forward, all in a bid to elevate Singapore’s maritime industry to new heights.
Caroline said, “SSA aspires to be a reputable and internationally recognised shipping association that creates significant value for its members. Our vision for the future is rooted in our commitment to the maritime industry and our role in enhancing Singapore’s standing as a leading International Maritime Centre.
To fulfil this vision, SSA aims to serve as a unifying voice and industry advocate for Singapore’s maritime ecosystem. We are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting Singapore’s competitive edge in the global maritime arena. SSA will act as a sounding board for government policies, providing critical insights and feedback to ensure the continued growth and resilience of our industry. Additionally, SSA is committed to supporting the training and development needs of the industry by offering customised and cost-effective programs tailored to the specific requirements of various industry segments.
She went on to explain that the three-month long endeavour has allowed SSA to remain a relevant and well-connected association within the maritime ecosystem, capable of meeting the evolving needs of its members in an increasingly challenging shipping business climate.
Strategic Focus of Vision2030
To strengthen the SSA’s mandate, the Council and SSA members who participated in the strategy exercise identified six priority themes that will guide our initiatives in the next few years. This serves as a roadmap for the association’s efforts to drive industry leadership, digital transformation, sustainability, and talent development.
1. Drive Industry Leadership
SSA aims to set new benchmarks and lead by example across the maritime industry by adopting best practices and new technologies. By innovating and advocating for beneficial policies, SSA positions Singapore as a global leader in maritime excellence.
2. Increase Industry Digital Maturity
SSA encourages members to adopt advanced technologies like AI and blockchain to optimize operations. Leading in digital maturity ensures the maritime industry remains at the forefront of technological advancements.
3. Adoption of Government-Initiated Programs
SSA actively engages with government initiatives to shape favourable policies and support sustainable growth. By aligning with these programs, SSA promotes regulations that benefit both businesses and the wider community.
4. Collaborative Platforms
SSA promotes platforms that bring industry stakeholders together to tackle challenges and seize opportunities. These collaborative efforts lead to joint ventures and partnerships that advance the maritime sector’s development.
5. Drive Sustainability Through the Adoption of Alternative Fuels and Decarbonisation
SSA accelerates the adoption of cleaner energy sources and eco-friendly technologies to reduce environmental impact. Leading in sustainability builds a resilient, environmentally responsible maritime industry.
6. Human Capital and Talent Management
SSA offers training programs to enhance professional skills and develop a capable workforce. By focusing on talent management, SSA ensures members’ employees are prepared to navigate modern shipping complexities and drive innovation.
Members can download the Strategic Initiatives for SSA booklet here
The day concluded with a cocktail reception attended by over 450 members and guests. This informal gathering provided a valuable opportunity for members to network and share insights.
During the reception, Ms. Caroline Yang shared two key industry updates with the audience. Since becoming the first port in the world to implement e-Bunker Delivery Notes (e-BDN), the industry has been steadily digitalising its operations when supplying and taking bunkers. Caroline acknowledged the initial challenges faced during the implementation but commended the members who contributed to overcoming these obstacles through their feedback and participation in SSA’s operational committees. She encouraged more members, especially international shipping companies, to adopt e-BDNs, highlighting benefits such as enhanced visibility of the bunkering process, streamlined record-keeping, and improved data management for commercial insights.
For more information on the e-BDN video, please watch it here.
Caroline also highlighted that the SSA stands ready to assist our members in developing talents, in its role as a programme partner of the Workforce Singapore’s Career Conversion Programme (CCP). Since the programme’s launch at SSA in January 2024, the Association has assisted member companies in their salary support grant applications, thus enabling them to focus on hiring and training talent from outside the industry. Similarly, the program supports maritime companies in reskilling existing employees when the company undertakes digitalisation or other business transformation projects.
The night ended in an atmosphere of camaraderie, as we welcomed the new members in our midst.
“Our journey ahead is ambitious yet purposeful, driven by a steadfast commitment to elevate SSA as a beacon of excellence in the global maritime landscape.”
– Caroline Yang, President of the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA)