SSA Marks 40 Years with a Spectacular Gala Dinner

SSA Celebrates 40 Years of Maritime Excellence

More than 2,600 Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) members and guests gathered at the Grand Sands Ballroom at Marina Bay Sands on 26 September 2025 to celebrate the SSA 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner. This milestone event is one of the most anticipated occasions in the Singapore maritime industry’s annual calendar.

Honouring SSA’s Legacy

The evening was a vibrant celebration of SSA’s four-decade journey. Maritime professionals, industry leaders, and government representatives came together to honour SSA’s legacy and its contributions to Singapore’s maritime growth. Guests enjoyed an elegant dinner, captivating performances by The Jazzlings band, and more.

A commemorative video showcased SSA’s milestones over the years was played during the dinner. For the first time, SSA brought together three generations of SSA leadership, weaving their voices into a powerful story of progress. Using archival visuals and candid interviews, the video highlighted SSA’s role in promoting maritime innovation, supporting talent development, and driving sustainability efforts. It was a celebration not just of history, but of the collaborative spirit that continues to shape the industry’s future.

Government and Regional Maritime Collaboration

Senior Minister of State Mr. Murali Pillai attended as Guest-of-Honour, underscoring the government’s continued support for Singapore’s maritime industry. His attendance highlighted the importance of public-private collaboration in advancing Singapore’s maritime competitiveness.

The gala also welcomed ambassadors from Denmark, Greece, Italy, Japan, and Norway, reflecting SSA’s international reach and the global significance of Singapore’s maritime sector. Their presence reflected the strong diplomatic and trade ties that support maritime cooperation across borders.

SSA has been a longstanding member of the Federation of ASEAN Shipowners’ Associations (FASA) and was delighted to welcome distinguished guests from the federation at the gala dinner. Leading the delegation was FASA Chair Ms. Carmelita Hartoto, whose attendance reaffirmed the value of regional collaboration and the shared commitment to advancing maritime interests across Asia.

A Heartfelt Address

This was Mr. TS Teo’s first gala dinner as President of SSA. He delivered a heartfelt address, expressing gratitude to his predecessors and SSA’s partners from the government, unions and industry. His speech reflected on the association’s achievements and future aspirations in a rapidly evolving maritime landscape. These plans are anchored in decarbonisation, digitalisation, and human capital.

Carbon Footprint Insights and Offset Commitment

As part of SSA’s commitment to hosting a carbon-neutral gala dinner, a Carbon Credit Survey was conducted to assess the carbon footprint of guests’ transport choices. The survey revealed that total transport-related emissions amounted to 4,453.27 kgCO₂e.

To uphold SSA’s sustainability pledge, these emissions will be fully offset, ensuring the event achieves carbon neutrality. This initiative was made possible through the generous support of Carbon Credit Sponsor SDTR Marine Pte Ltd, with certification provided by China Classification Society.

Looking Ahead

As the maritime industry continues to navigate challenges such as green shipping and evolving trade dynamics, SSA’s 40th anniversary stands as a powerful reminder of its resilience. The event celebrated the strength and unity of Singapore’s maritime community.

To view photos of the event, please visit the 2025 SSA 40th Anniversary Gala Dinner photo album.