Singapore aims to boost maritime efficiency with digital and cybersecurity upgrades
The city-state will leverage technology to improve operations.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is developing systems that will help streamline port and marine services, ensuring the city-state remains an attractive hub for maritime companies.
In a statement, the MPA said one of the technologies it is developing is an artificial intelligence-enabled system to streamline port clearance processing. This will be introduced progressively over the next few years, aiming to reduce the processing time required for port clearance applications from up to three days to minutes, and also enhance the accuracy of data entry and verification.
Pilot trials have also commenced for two AI-driven applications, DocuMind and DocuMatch, to test how these can help improve the accuracy and efficiency of insurance certificate renewals for Singapore-registered ships.
MPA said adoption will expand to the whole of the industry by end-2025.
Singapore has also launched the Maritime Cyber Assurance and Operations Centre (MCAOC) for real-time security monitoring and disseminating information, helping companies immediately address cyber threats. This is expected to help companies save an estimated $200,000 annually by pooling cyber monitoring and information scanning capabilities.
To date, 16 companies have come on board MCAOC.
MPA also plans to allocate more sea-space for companies to conduct technology trials. This is expected to attract global marinetech players and start-ups to establish and grow a local presence in Singapore.
Some of the technology solutions that can be trialled include autonomous flotsam collection, robotic hull cleaning, smart and remote harbour craft operations, and maritime drone inspection and delivery.
Meanwhile, MPA said the Maritime Drone Estate will be renovated to accommodate more and larger-sized drones to support a wider range of services and trials. Launched in 2021, this aims to support the development of drone technologies and concept of operations for maritime use cases.
In terms of 5G, MPA said five Maritime 5G base stations have been so far installed and operationalised as of 2024. Up to seven will come online by 2025 to complete Maritime 5G coverage in all our major fairways, anchorages, terminals and boarding grounds.
MPA also aims to operationalise the Maritime Testbed of Shipboard Operational Technology System on 20 March 2025 at the Singapore University of Technology and Design iTrust Centre.
This is the world’s first industrial-grade simulation platform, equipped with propulsion, machinery, power, and navigational bridge systems, to provide cybersecurity training and support cybersecurity solutions testing in a realistic environment.
