Singapore Launches New Patrol Boats
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said it launched eight new patrol vessels to help ensure navigational safety and enhance the protection of the marine environment in the Port of Singapore.Six new 17-meter vessels replace the existing fleet of patrol craft, which had been in service since 2012, plus two new 15-meter patrol launches have been acquired for flag and port state control inspections, to conduct checks on bunkering and private wharves activities, and…
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Holds Ferry Emergency Drill
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) conducted a ferry emergency exercise to test the readiness of various agencies in responding to ferry mishaps in the Port of Singapore.More than 100 personnel from ten organisations (Annex) took part in the exercise at sea near Kukor Buoy. The exercise scenario involved the evacuation of 72 passengers on-board a domestic ferry after her grounding on a large underwater object.Passengers were then evacuated onto life rafts and a rescue ferry alongside the grounded vessel. A search and rescue operation was also conducted for missing passengers.New to this year’s exercise, MPA trialled the use of smart devices to boost search and rescue efforts.
Singapore Steps Up Safety At Sea
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has stepped up efforts to enhance safety at sea during the year-end festive season. As everyone unwinds during this period, MPA urges the public and all port users to remain vigilant and safe at sea. Typically, the Port of Singapore sees as much as a 15 per cent increase in the number of passengers during the months of November to January. This period coincides with the Northeast monsoon season, which may create unfavourable conditions at sea. Passengers should continue to be mindful of basic safety practices while enjoying the festive mood. MPA has taken additional measures during the festive season to raise safety awareness and ensure that all port users remain vigilant and observe safety rules.
Berlian Acquires Chembulk Tankers
Publicly listed shipping company PT Berlian Laju Tanker (BLT) has acquired Marshall Islands-based chemical tanker company Chembulk Tankers LLC, through its subsidiary Asean Maritime Corporation. Director of BLT, Kevin Wong, said in a statement to the Jakarta Stock Exchange that the cost of the acquisition was $850m. He said the purchase made BLT the third largest chemical tanker operator in the world with 54 ships with a total capacity of 820,600 deadweight tons (DWT). Chembulk now operates 16 double-hull ships capable of carrying a total of 397,200 DWT. It plans to add three more ships by 2009, which will increase its total capacity to 468,200 DWT. [Source: The Jakarta Post]
Keppel Philippines Appoints New Execs.
Keppel Corporation Ltd.'s Group Finance Director, Teo Soon Hoe has been appointed Chairman of Keppel Philippines Holdings, Inc (KPH), following the retirement of Loh Wing Siew. Charles Foo, who currently serves as the managing director of Keppel Hitachi Zosen, will assume Loh's post as Chairman of Keppel Philippines Marine, Inc (KPMI) and Subic Shipyard and Engineering Inc (SSEI). Kevin Wong, who is the executive director and managing director of Keppel Land Limited (Keppel Land) in Singapore, will take over as chairman of Keppel Philippines Properties Inc (KPPI).
