The newly launched Maritime House is a strategic initiative aimed at transforming Singapore’s maritime workforce by providing affordable accommodation, advanced training facilities, and opportunities for collaboration among industry stakeholders. Murali Pillai, Minister of State for Law and Transport, emphasized the crucial role of the maritime workforce in his address at the Singapore Maritime Foundation’s New Year Conversations event. He underscored the need for continuous development to navigate the evolving industry, particularly as it shifts toward energy efficiency and alternative fuels.
A key component of this initiative is the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF), introduced in April 2024. This facility works in partnership with 51 industry leaders to develop training programs that equip maritime workers with the skills to safely handle alternative fuels such as methanol and ammonia. Since the launch, 430 personnel have undergone training, with an ambitious goal of training 10,000 workers by the 2030s.
The Maritime House plays several essential roles:
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Support for Seafarers: It will provide affordable accommodation for seafarers transit, ensuring their well-being during their time in Singapore.
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Fostering Learning: Serving as a resource hub, it will facilitate maritime training and research and development.
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Enhanced Safety: Acting as a decentralized site for METF, it contributes to the overall safety of maritime operations.
Recognizing the necessity for a holistic approach to talent development, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) have established the Joint Office for Talent and Skills. This initiative is designed to address several key areas:
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Skills Training: Offering sector-specific courses tailored to the maritime industry’s needs.
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Career Support: Connecting talent with industry partners, including shipowners and operators.
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Manpower Planning: Advising companies on workforce strategies, utilizing outcomes from the COMPASS framework for self-assessment.
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Ground Sensing: Gathering insights from industry stakeholders to drive future policy improvements.
Looking ahead, MPA plans to host a Maritime Circle of HR Innovators (CHRO) Forum in the first quarter of 2025. This forum will tackle talent challenges and promote initiatives to attract and develop maritime talent. Additionally, MPA will collaborate with industry partners and educational institutions to enhance maritime career prospects and broaden the talent pool.
MOS Murali concluded with a call to action for all industry partners to explore the diverse opportunities and support available through the Joint Office and METF, reinforcing Singapore’s commitment to advancing its maritime sector and supporting its workforce.
