The 9th IAPH Asia/Oceania Regional Meeting and Port Forum in Singapore discusses issues on port security, competitiveness and the environment

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) is co-hosting a meeting together with the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH) to deliberate on challenges and identify opportunities in the maritime and port industry.

Members of IAPH last met in Singapore in 1975, and have come together at this 9th IAPH Asia/Oceania Regional Meeting and Port Forum to foster cooperation and joint efforts in managing the changing global maritime landscape.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport BG (NS) Choi Shing Kwok said, "From having to deal with a capacity crunch as recently as six months ago, ports have now to adapt to lower business activity. In these challenging times, this forum will provide a useful platform to discuss ideas on how the maritime community can stay focused on their shared objectives of developing more secure, more competitive and cleaner ports."

According to MPA Chief Executive and IAPH third Vice-President BG (NS) Tay Lim Heng, the maritime and port community can benefit from the exchange of ideas and sharing of insights to enhance port security, competitiveness and sustainable port operations and development.

"Singapore as the meeting venue also accords IAPH delegates the added benefit of being able to interact and exchange ideas with Singapore's vibrant maritime community," he said. "MPA is honoured to host this IAPH Regional Meeting and Port Forum, which is in line with our drive to develop Singapore as a maritime thought capital and centre for major maritime events."

The 9th IAPH Asia/Oceania Regional Meeting and Port Forum brings together more than 150 port officials and industry leaders from some 15 countries in Asia and Oceania to discuss strategies for more secure, competitive and environmentally-friendly ports. Participants include the local maritime community, as well as experts from research institutes such as the National University of Singapore's Centre of Maritime Studies.

Since its inception in 1955, IAPH has consistently fostered good relations and cooperation among ports and harbours around the world through platforms or forums for sharing knowledge on the latest trends and developments in port management and operations.

End of release

About the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) was established on 2 February 1996, with the mission to develop Singapore as a premier global hub port and international maritime centre (IMC), and to advance and safeguard Singapore's strategic maritime interests. The MPA is the driving force behind Singapore's port and maritime development, taking on the roles of port authority, port regulator, port planner, IMC champion, and national sea transport representative. The MPA partners the industry and other agencies to enhance safety, security and environmental protection in our port waters, facilitate port operations and growth, expand the cluster of maritime ancillary services, and promote maritime R&D and manpower development.