Singapore and Norway to Continue Research Cooperation

Research cooperation between Singapore and Norway took an important step forward on October 4, 2013, when the “High Level Advisory Board” (HLAB) for the development of new traffic systems in the Strait of Malacca held its second meeting to examine the status of the project.

Delegates to the meeting were presented with a proposal for a cooperative project involving Norway and Singapore which, according to HLAB, could mean a revolution in how vessel traffic is controlled in complex traffic hubs. Even the representatives of shipping companies, which are traditionally reluctant to accept stricter control of shipping traffic, gave their close to unqualified support to the proposal.

Briefly, the proposal focuses on using new communications technology to connect traditional “Vessel Traffic Services” – VTS directly with a ship’s bridge crew, and with the aid of advanced simulation and decision-support systems, to cooperate of identifying a safe and efficient sailing plan for each vessel. This concept has great potential for improving safety and security, while saving the environment from significant quantities of emissions by optimising vessel speed and fuel consumption.

HLAB consists of high-level personnel from the most important maritime organisations concerned with the development of regulations, standardisation and industry, as well as senior staff from the marine state authorities in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Norway. Regional director John Erik Hagen of the Norwegian Coastal Administration is chairman of the Committee, while MARINTEK maintains its secretariat.

Singapore-Norway research cooperation is based on a memorandum of understanding between the Research Council of Norway and Singapore’s Maritime and Port Authority (MPA), which was last renewed in 2012.

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MARINTEK, October 17, 2013