The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Microsoft have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work on new technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, robots, and cybersecurity.
According to MPA, the goal of this partnership is to help the maritime sector embrace and develop digital and green solutions.
MPA and Microsoft will test the use of AI and digital twins to optimise vessel route planning to improve safety and cut emissions in marine operations, as well as just-in-time arrivals to shorten vessel turnaround times in port.
MPA and Microsoft will also teach early adopters and staff on how to utilise and execute these technologies in their businesses.
As part of MPA’s larger efforts to increase the marine industry’s cyber resilience, MPA and Microsoft said they will investigate synergies with MPA’s own cybersecurity capabilities, allowing enterprises to detect cyber threats early and take appropriate action.
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MPA and Microsoft will also collaborate to build new digital solutions or use current Microsoft products to benefit small and medium-sized businesses by aggregating demand and increasing energy efficiency in shipping and port operations.
These solutions involve utilising Microsoft’s digital modelling and simulation tools and analytics capabilities, as well as developing spatial models to support policy and decision-making on climate risk assessment, mitigation, and adoption strategies.
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David Foo, MPA’s Assistant Chief Executive (Operations Technology), said: “MPA is pleased to work with the industry to create digital solutions and applications to address the key challenges in port operations and service delivery, safe navigation of ships, cybersecurity, and sustainability.
“The collaboration also supports goals for the maritime sector to innovate, reduce business costs and carbon emissions in alignment with the national and international emission targets.”
Lee Hui Li, Managing Director, Microsoft Singapore added: “Together, we strive to establish new benchmarks in safety, efficiency, and sustainability, as we accelerate innovation for the global maritime sector.”
