QaIn response to the disruptions caused by the global COVID-19 pandemic, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) announced the MaritimeSG Together Package, aimed at providing considerable financial support to the maritime industry starting May 1, 2020. This initiative, worth approximately S$27 million (US$19.2 million), supplements earlier government measures designed to bolster the sector. The maritime industry is critical to Singapore’s economy, facilitating over 80% of global trade, which is especially vital for the transportation of essential goods like food and medicine during the crisis.
Quah Ley Hoon, Chief Executive of MPA, emphasized the importance of timely support for the maritime sector, acknowledging the increasing impact of global supply chain disruptions. The package seeks to provide targeted assistance to companies, individuals, and seafarers who have been pivotal in maintaining port operations and cargo flow during challenging times. Beyond immediate relief, MPA aims to leverage this opportunity to accelerate the transformation of Maritime Singapore for the post-COVID-19 landscape.
### Support for Maritime Companies and Individuals
Under the new package, vessel owners and cargo ship operators will receive a 30% port dues concession for cargo vessels and non-passenger-carrying harbourcraft until the end of 2020. Previous benefits for regional ferry operators, initially set at 35%, will be increased to 50% for rental fee offsets. To bolster long-term capabilities, MPA is launching new manpower schemes and increasing co-funding under select Maritime Cluster Fund programs by up to 90%. A new Internship Reimbursement Scheme will support internships for Singaporean or Permanent Resident students, covering 50% of allowances for up to six months.
Recognizing that many maritime companies face financial strain, MPA indicates it will exercise flexibility in credit management measures during this period.
### Support for Seafarers
Seafarers have faced significant uncertainty due to border control measures and crew change restrictions. MPA, alongside the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU), introduced the Seafarers Relief Package, offering eligible Singaporean seafarers up to S$800 per month in financial aid if they cannot secure shipboard employment from May to July 2020. Additional incentives include S$10,000 for eligible Certificate of Competency Class 1 holders who attain at least six months of sea experience in 2020.
To facilitate the educational progress of Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA) cadets disrupted by the pandemic, MPA will allow flexibility in curriculum requirements, including online classroom training and deferring shipboard training. Oral examinations for seafarer candidates have also been transitioned to video conferencing to minimize career advancement delays.
Lastly, MPA will enhance its support for seafarer welfare organizations, contributing an additional S$50,000 to their annual grant, which already supports various welfare services, including online counseling for seafarers.
Through this comprehensive support package, MPA aims to navigate the maritime industry through the crisis while preparing it for future challenges and opportunities.
