The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) extended the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Research and Development (R&D) today. The initial MOU which was signed for a two year period will expire on 29 July 98. Signing the MOU at a ceremony today were MPA's Director-General, Mr Chen Tze Penn and NTU's Deputy President, Professor Chen Charng Ning.

The signing of the MOU effectively extended the R&D cooperation between the two organisations for a further two year period commencing 29 July 98. This extension of the MOU would allow MPA and NTU to continue the extensive work on R&D projects pertinent to Singapore's port and maritime sector.

For the past two years, the R&D collaboration between the two organisations has produced significant results. Some of the collaborative projects that have been launched since the signing of the first MOU include the following:

Sea-Space Capacity Model

The Sea-Space Capacity Model is an analytical model developed to determine the capacities of the berthing facilities, anchorages and shipping lanes within a generalised sea-space network. This model would allow port planners and operators to assess the capabilities of the existing facilities and shipping channels and to study various future scenarios in order to predict how well the port would function under these scenarios. The model is not only useful in the investigation of the impacts of various planning and operational concepts before actual implementation, it would also help identify potential problems, formulate appropriate solutions and optimise sea space planning and operation thus, enhancing port performance.

An Integration of the Numerical Modelling and Geographic Information System

This is a coastal zone resource management system that will be operated as a transparent shell with inter-linking facilities encompassing both a Geographic Information System (GIS) and numerical modelling module. The GIS will serve as a platform to collect and collate information which forms the core for a dynamic information system. The shell would facilitate the operation of the numerical model and the movement and spread of oil slicks can be simulated. Coastal resource maps and information which are useful in pollutant mitigation and resource management for the coastal zone can also be produced. Furthermore, the system would be able to map out areas and activities affected, to formulate response strategies and assess the damages in the case of an oil spill incident.

Computerised Anchorage Management System

The Computerised Anchorage Management System is designed with the aim of optimising the use of anchorage space in the Port of Singapore. This system would be able to forecast the utilisation of anchorage space and the knowledge attained could be used to assign new arrivals to anchorage locations. This system not only leads to more efficient use of space, but also improves safety in the port by reducing unnecessary ship movements within the port and between anchorage areas.

With the extension of the MOU, some of the projects that are in the pipeline include the following:

Maritime Conflict Prediction and Scheduling System (CPSS)

The Maritime Conflict Prediction and Scheduling System (CPSS) is a computer-based system proposed for the prediction of potential maritime conflicts and conflict resolution for sensitive vessels such as passenger ships, oil or chemical carrying tankers etc. in the Port. When integrated with the current Vessel Traffic Information System, real time conflict prediction and scheduling can be achieved and thus aid in the avoidance of potential maritime accidents.

Electronic Enforcement System for High Speed Craft (EES)

Currently, high speed regional ferries plying between Singapore and its neighbouring countries have to comply with certain international codes or conventions when navigating within port waters and any infringements are monitored manually upon receiving information from the Vessel Traffic Information System. The EES, however, will automate the monitoring of infringements and generate infringement reports using inputs from the ferry's radio transponders.

In his speech at the signing ceremony, Mr Chen said that the extension of the MOU will provide the basis for an even further research and development cooperation between MPA and NTU.

End of Statement.