MPA and PSA inaugurates Port Technology Research and Development Programme

Both parties will join forces to conduct research and test bed new technologies for future container terminals.

Paving the way for more technologically advanced container terminals in Singapore, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and PSA Corporation Limited (PSA) jointly launched the Port Technology Research and Development Programme today through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The MOU was signed by MPA Chief Executive Mr Lam Yi Young and Mr Tan Puay Hin, Regional CEO Southeast Asia, PSA International. The signing was witnessed by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transport, Mr Choi Shing Kwok, who was the Guest-of-Honour at the opening ceremony of the International Maritime-Port Technology and Development Conference 2011, which was held in conjunction with the 6th Singapore Maritime Week. Joining Mr Choi to witness the signing were Mr Lucien Wong, Chairman of MPA and Mr Fock Siew Wah, Group Chairman of PSA International.

The five-year Port Technology Research and Development Programme will focus on three broad areas, namely automated container port systems, advanced container port optimisation techniques and technologies, and green port technologies. The Programme will see MPA, PSA, equipment and technology providers, local institutes of higher learning and other companies coming together to develop advanced port technologies for Singapore’s container terminals.

MPA will fund the Programme with up to S$10 million over five years from the Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund (MINT Fund). PSA, together with local institutes of higher learning and other industry partners will provide co-funding and in-kind resources of up to S$10 million over the same period, according to an MPA report.

A key project that would be undertaken by PSA under the new MOU is the development of Automated Guided Vehicles (or AGVs) for future container terminals to reduce manpower and improve port productivity. PSA will also seek and adapt new technologies to develop more intelligent systems that will streamline port planning processes and operations. These seek to further raise the value-add of employees and overall productivity.

“For the world’s busiest transhipment hub, technology is vital in ensuring that its terminal customers are served seamlessly, efficiently and effectively round the clock. Through this Programme, MPA hopes that Singapore will continue to be at the forefront of technology in port operations and services adding to its development and growth as an international maritime centre,” said Mr Lam.

Said Mr Tan, “This MOU Programme will create new opportunities for collaboration with MPA and our industry partners to jointly develop more innovative port management solutions and tools. PSA is fully committed to propel itself to reach higher levels of productivity and effectiveness to serve our customers.”