As we reflect on the achievements of the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) during the FY24/25 work year. I am honoured to highlight the strides we have made in three critical pillars: decarbonisation, human capital development, and digitalisation. These areas are not isolated achievements but interwoven elements that collectively advance the broader goal of sustainability - ensuring that Singapore’s maritime sector remains resilient, competitive, and responsible amid global environmental and economic challenges.
These accomplishments are also particularly meaningful as I reflect on my six years as SSA President – a period marked by both remarkable progress and unprecedented challenges. Throughout my tenure, and especially during this past year, we have navigated a complex landscape shaped by geopolitical uncertainties, supply chain disruptions, evolving regulatory pressures, and the imperative of decarbonisation. Throughout all this, our unwavering focus on innovation, sustainability, and talent development has been critical in reinforcing Singapore's position as a global maritime leader.
Our commitment to decarbonisation is exemplified by the remarkable growth in biofuel adoption, with sales jumping sixfold from 140,000 tonnes in 2022 to some 880,000 tonnes this year. This surge directly supports Singapore’s Nationally Determined Contributions to reduce emissions by 36% by 2030 and demonstrates our leadership in integrating sustainable fuel solutions.
The SSA has been instrumental in facilitating partnerships between our local biofuel producers and our shipping companies, enabling the seamless integration of biofuels into existing operations. I am particularly pleased with the successful biofuel blend trials we have conducted with major shipping lines, proving their effectiveness in reducing carbon footprints without compromising performance. These achievements are a testament to the collaborative spirit within our community and our proactive approach to meeting the growing demand for sustainable shipping solutions.
Another groundbreaking initiative that I am honoured to have been a part of is the move to make Singapore the first port globally to implement mandatory digital bunkering services by April 2025. This move, following extensive trials and pilot projects, will require all bunker suppliers to issue electronic bunker delivery notes (e-BDNs). This transformation is projected to save approximately 40,000 man-days annually, streamlining operations, enhancing regulatory compliance, and improving accountability.
The SSA has worked closely with all stakeholders to develop a robust digital framework, ensuring data security and transparency. We have also provided extensive workshops and training sessions to support industry players during this transition. This initiative is not just about efficiency; it is about building a more transparent, trustworthy, and resilient bunkering ecosystem that can better address growing concerns about fraud and accountability, reinforcing Singapore’s reputation as a trusted and resilient global bunkering hub.
The SSA has actively engaged with stakeholders to develop pathways for low and zero-carbon marine fuels, as evidenced by our inaugural Decarbonisation Forum held in October 2024. We brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers to explore strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in shipping, focusing on the adoption of ammonia and hydrogen as alternative fuels and the critical need for international collaboration in research and development.
Our collaboration with leading research institutions have yielded significant results. One such example is SSA’s coalition partnership agreement with the Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation. This initiative focuses on sharing knowledge and data to accelerate the adoption of low- and zero-carbon solutions, driving the development of green corridors and pilot programmes for cleaner fuels like LNG, ammonia, and methanol.
Central to digitalisation efforts is the emphasis on cybersecurity as a critical pillar of resilience. Over the years, Maritime Singapore has built strong cybersecurity capabilities, and SSA has taken further steps to enhance this by incubating the Singapore Cyber Insurance for Safe Shipping and Operational Readiness (SCISSOR) platform. SCISSOR is one of the first platforms in the world to offer a specialised, integrated, and IMO-compliant cyber insurance portal combined with digital maturity assessment tools specifically designed for the shipping sector, thus ensuring that digital transformation within the industry is underpinned by robust cyber risk management.
At the heart of our progress is our investment in human capital. Through the MaritimeONE Scholarship Programme, SSA has contributed more than 700,000 SGD to the development of 51 scholars since 2014, nurturing talent across a wide spectrum of maritime and related disciplines. Additionally, the Sail Milestone Achievement Programme (SailMAP), a tripartite initiative involving SSA, has supported 152 local seafarers as they attain key competency milestones, encouraging long-term careers at sea and strengthening our maritime workforce pipeline.
Our collaboration with Workforce Singapore on the Career Conversion Programme (CCP) – which only began this year – has already upskilled 100 individuals. This initiative has successfully prepared maritime professionals for new roles within the industry, such as digital operations and environmental management. At the same time, we have expanded our membership to include 29 technology start-ups focused on maritime innovation, fostering a vibrant ecosystem that encourages creativity and drives progress.
As I conclude my six-year tenure as SSA President, I reflect on a maritime landscape that is increasingly complex and uncertain. The recent introduction of new U.S. tariffs-imposing duties on imports from key trading partners-has injected fresh volatility into global trade flows. These tariffs threaten to disrupt supply chains, reduce cargo volumes, and compel shipping companies to reconsider routing, pricing, and sourcing strategies. The resulting operational challenges and geopolitical tensions underscore the urgent need for agility and resilience within our industry.
In this evolving environment, the new SSA leadership team brings fresh perspectives and renewed energy to guide our members through these headwinds. We remain steadfast in our commitment to champion sustainability, foster talent development, and accelerate digital transformation. By continuing to build strong partnerships, advocate for supportive policies, and deliver innovative solutions, SSA will help the maritime community navigate these turbulent waters and seize emerging opportunities.
I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support, dedication, and commitment of our members, partners, and the SSA team throughout my presidency. Together, we have laid a solid foundation for the future. I am confident that under new leadership, SSA will continue to be a unifying voice of our members, championing their interests and strengthening Singapore’s position as a leading International Maritime Centre. It has been an honour to serve alongside you, and I look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish in the years to come.