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Following a recent series of security breaches affecting healthcare patients in Singapore, another health public sector agency reported that personal information of 808,201 blood donors was left vulnerable after a third-party vendor failed to securely protect a server containing data. The database had contained registration-related information such as donors’ name and national identification number and, in some instances, blood type and weight.
The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) was alerted on 13 March 2019 that one of its vendor’s servers contained a HSA database that was not adequately safeguarded against access over the internet. The vendor provides services to HSA and was working on a database containing registration-related information of the blood donors: Name, NRIC, gender, number of blood donations, dates of the last three blood donations, and in some cases, blood type, height and weight. The database contained no other sensitive, medical or contact information.
Cyber expert uncovered the vulnerability in the database
A cybersecurity expert had discovered this vulnerability and alerted the Personal Data Protection Commission. HSA immediately worked with SSG to disable access to the database.
The HSA have also made a Police report. The expert has confirmed to HSA that he does not intend to disclose the contents of the database. HSA is in contact with the expert on deleting the information.
Health Services Authority apologises for data breach
Chief Executive Officer of HSA, Dr Mimi Choong, said: “We sincerely apologise to our blood donors for this lapse by our vendor. We would like to assure donors that HSA’s centralised blood bank system is not affected. HSA will also step up checks and monitoring of our vendors to ensure the safe and proper use of blood donor information.”
Third-party vendor failed to put in place adequate security measures
Investigations are ongoing. Preliminary findings from HSA’s review of the database logs show that other than the cybersecurity expert who raised the alert, no other unauthorised person had accessed the database. HSA had provided the data to the vendor for updating and testing.
They then placed the information in an internet-facing server on 4 Jan 2019 and failed to put in place adequate safeguards to prevent unauthorised access. It had done so without HSA’s knowledge and approval, and against its contractual obligations with HSA.
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In her address at the LIA Annual Luncheon, Ms Ho Hern Shin, Deputy Managing Director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the pivotal role of technology in elevating customer experience within the life insurance sector could be seen. Under the theme of “Treating Customers Right,” Ms Ho outlined key pillars for insurers to build and enhance engagement, trust and sustainability.
The LIA Management Committee were commended for their adept utilisation of available tools and technology, amidst industry challenges, from the transformation spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic for targeted customer solutions. She reiterated MAS’ commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in the tech-driven landscape.
Central to customer satisfaction is product design harnessing digital innovations to align with evolving preferences. AI-powered wellness programmes, tech-enabled co-payment initiatives, and user-friendly mobile apps for bite-size insurance products are great examples. These tech-driven solutions not only cater to diverse customer needs but also optimise operational efficiency for insurers.
The pivotal role of data analytics in enabling fair and inclusive underwriting practices is also clear. Insurers can leverage advanced algorithms and predictive modelling to objectively assess applications, ensuring equitable coverage for individuals with disabilities or mental health conditions. Collaboration with data professionals and research communities is essential to harnessing data for actionable insights.
Insurers can leverage digital platforms such as SGFinDex and AI-driven chatbots to offer personalised financial advice. SGFinDex, the pioneering digital infrastructure in Singapore, stands as the world’s first to integrate a national digital identity with a centrally managed online consent system. This innovative platform empowers individuals by granting them seamless access to their financial data dispersed across various government agencies and financial institutions.
Tech-enabled strategies can streamline the fact-finding process, empowering customers to make informed decisions aligned with their financial goals. Such platforms can leverage machine learning algorithms to tailor product recommendations based on customer profiles and life stages.
Continued investments in digital infrastructure are essential for delivering seamless post-sales experiences. MAS’ regulatory amendments facilitate secure online transactions, including beneficiary nomination and claims processing. Insurers were urged to embrace emerging technologies such as blockchain for immutable record-keeping and smart contracts to automate claims settlements, enhancing transparency and efficiency.
OpenGov Asia reported that in response to growing concerns voiced by Members of Parliament and citizens regarding customer protection from scams, MAS and other government agencies are intensifying collaborative efforts with the industry to combat fraudulent activities.
MAS and IMDA have introduced a consultation paper outlining the Shared Responsibility Framework (SRF) to address phishing scams, assigning responsibilities to financial institutions (FIs) and telecommunication companies (Telcos) to mitigate scam risks and ensure compensation for affected victims.
This framework expands upon previous initiatives by the Payments Council, recognising the crucial roles of both FIs and Telcos in preventing fund outflows resulting from digitally enabled scams that undermine confidence in digital banking systems.
Outlined duties for FIs and Telcos include sending transaction notifications and implementing scam filters, with breaches triggering a “waterfall approach” in which FIs and Telcos are held accountable for losses, with FIs bearing primary responsibility followed by Telcos as custodians of consumers’ money
The importance of fostering an ethical culture, where data fairness is paramount and values supersede profits is vital. The board and senior management must champion ethical principles, ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making.
Insurance, as indeed all other sectors, would greatly benefit if they embrace technology as a catalyst for delivering superior customer outcomes. By leveraging digital innovations across all facets of their operations, organisations can enhance customer engagement, streamline processes, and foster trust in the digital age.
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The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) is dedicated to securing Singapore’s cyberspace to support national security, power the digital economy, and protect the digital way of life. To reinforce national security, CSA continually monitors cyber threats, defends critical information infrastructure (CII), and implements mitigation measures to safeguard essential services.
The Singapore Cyber Emergency Response Team (SingCERT) responds to cybersecurity incidents for its Singapore constituents. It was set up to facilitate the detection, resolution and prevention of cybersecurity-related incidents on the Internet.
Singapore, represented by the CSA has been working closely with ASEAN Member States (AMS) to establish the ASEAN Regional Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) to promote and facilitate information-sharing related to cyber incident response, and to complement the operational efforts by individual national CERTs in each AMS.
Singapore had made the recommendation for a single AMS to host the ASEAN Regional CERT and proposed to host and fund its physical activities in Singapore at the 14th ASEAN Network Security Action Council in August 2023.
The ASEAN Regional CERT will enable stronger regional cybersecurity incident response coordination and critical information infrastructure (CII) protection cooperation, including for cross-border CII such as banking and finance, communications, aviation and maritime.
The 4th ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting (ADGMIN) convened in Singapore in February, to address the multifaceted challenges and opportunities in the digital realm, particularly amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The meeting recognised advancements in implementing the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025 (ADM 2025) despite the pandemic and stressed the need for a robust and inclusive digital ecosystem. The ADM 2025 Mid-Term Review (MTR) assessed progress in key areas including trusted digital services, consumer protection, and broadband infrastructure
The meeting highlighted the need to set governance standards for emerging technologies like AI, based on recommendations from the ADM 2025 MTR. It also emphasised the importance of collaborating on digital infrastructure and fostering trust among users for secure data sharing.
The endorsement of the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics marked a significant milestone, reflecting the region’s commitment to harnessing AI technologies responsibly. The guide, which includes practical use cases for trustworthy AI deployment, is poised to serve as a valuable tool for promoting the responsible and ethical utilisation of AI solutions across ASEAN.
Additionally, the meeting welcomed initiatives aimed at enhancing regional cybersecurity capabilities, such as the establishment of the ASEAN Regional CERT. This initiative is expected to bolster incident response capabilities and facilitate timely information sharing and best practice exchange among ASEAN member states.
Moreover, the meeting acknowledged the importance of data governance and privacy protection in fostering digital trust. Efforts to promote the adoption of the ASEAN Model Contractual Clauses and facilitate seamless data transfers between ASEAN and the European Union were commended as significant steps towards enhancing regional data governance frameworks.
The meeting also highlighted the significance of digital infrastructure development, including the advancement of 5G networks and the establishment of frameworks to facilitate cross-border data flows, particularly in areas such as disaster management and logistics for rural areas.
In the realm of international cooperation, the meeting affirmed ASEAN’s commitment to deepening collaboration with dialogue and development partners, including China, Japan, the Republic of Korea, India, the United States, the European Union, ITU, and APT. These partnerships are crucial for advancing digital transformation, cybersecurity, and capacity-building efforts across the region.
Overall, the 4th ADGMIN underscored the collective resolve of ASEAN member states to navigate the evolving digital landscape, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and resilience to realise the full potential of the digital economy for the benefit of all stakeholders.
Following the endorsement of the financial model, Singapore will continue to work closely with AMS to operationalise the ASEAN Regional CERT to enhance collective cybersecurity within the region.
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In a groundbreaking development, scientists from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), have engineered ultra-thin semiconductor fibres capable of being seamlessly woven into fabrics, transforming them into wearable electronics. This innovative breakthrough holds immense potential in reshaping the landscape of wearable technology, paving the way for enhanced accessibility and functionality in smart wearable devices.
Overcoming the challenges of stress-induced defects and instability in manufacturing, NTU scientists meticulously analysed stress dynamics using advanced modelling and simulations. Their careful material selection and production sequencing yielded hair-thin, defect-free fibres up to 100 meters in length, demonstrating their scalability for market adoption.
The versatile semiconductor fibres seamlessly integrate into fabrics through conventional methods, showcased by NTU’s prototypes: a smart beanie for visually impaired individuals, a shirt doubling as a museum audio guide, and a smartwatch with a flexible sensor wristband for accurate heart rate monitoring during physical activities.
Associate Professor Wei Lei, lead-principal investigator of the study at NTU, said, “The successful fabrication of our high-quality semiconductor fibres underscores the interdisciplinary collaboration within our team, drawing expertise from materials science, mechanical, and electrical engineering domains. This collaborative effort has enabled us to overcome longstanding challenges in fibre technology, unlocking the door to defect-free threads with remarkable electrical and optoelectronic performance.”
To fabricate these defect-free fibres, the NTU-led team meticulously selected pairs of common semiconductor and synthetic materials, strategically combining silicon semiconductor cores with silica glass tubes and germanium cores with aluminosilicate glass tubes. These materials, chosen for their complementary attributes such as thermal stability and electrical conductivity, played a pivotal role in achieving the desired functionality of the fibres.
The manufacturing process involved heating the selected semiconductor material inside the glass tube until it reached a malleable state, enabling it to be drawn into a continuous, hair-thin strand. This intricate process, characterised by precise control of melting points and thermal expansion rates, ensured the seamless production of defect-free semiconductor fibres.
Dr Wang Zhixun, the First Author of the study, emphasised, “Extensive analysis guided us in identifying the optimal combination of materials and processes required to fabricate our fibres. By exploiting the unique properties of our selected materials, we successfully generated long threads devoid of defects, marking a significant advancement in semiconductor fibre technology.”
In laboratory experiments, the semiconductor fibres exhibited exceptional performance across various metrics. Demonstrating robust responsivity, these fibres effectively detected the entire visible light range, from ultraviolet to infrared, while transmitting signals with a bandwidth of up to 350 kilohertz (kHz), surpassing industry standards. Moreover, these fibres exhibited remarkable durability, proving to be 30 times tougher than conventional fibres.
Furthermore, the semiconductor fibres demonstrated outstanding washability, retaining their performance even after undergoing ten cycles of washing in a conventional washing machine.
Distinguished University Professor Gao Huajian, Co-principal Investigator of the study, noted, “The successful fabrication of ultra-long semiconductor fibres underscores the viability of flexible components using silicon and germanium, offering unprecedented opportunities for the development of wearable devices in various forms.”
To validate the practical applicability of these fibres, the NTU team seamlessly integrated them into everyday wearable items, including beanies, shirts, and smartwatches, showcasing their versatility and ease of adoption. Compatible with existing textile industry machinery, these fibres hold the potential for large-scale production, offering a cost-effective solution for wearable electronics.
Looking ahead, the research team aims to expand the repertoire of materials used for semiconductor fibres, exploring novel configurations to further broaden their applications in wearable technology.
NTU Singapore’s breakthrough in semiconductor fibre technology heralds a new era in wearable electronics, epitomising the transformative potential of interdisciplinary research and innovation in advancing technological frontiers.
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Recognising the urgent need for effective restoration measures, researchers at the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART) and Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) have pioneered a groundbreaking method that leverages satellite data and advanced mathematical modelling to accurately measure the carbon stored in bogs, thereby facilitating peatland restoration efforts and aiding in the fight against climate change.
Often referred to as bogs, Peatlands are among the Earth’s most valuable ecosystems, serving as natural carbon storehouses crucial for regulating the climate. However, human activities such as drainage and deforestation have severely impacted these fragile environments, leading to the release of significant amounts of carbon dioxide and making them susceptible to devastating wildfires.
Peatlands are renowned for their unparalleled capacity to sequester carbon, with raised peatlands in particular acting as reservoirs for vast amounts of carbon accumulated over thousands of years. However, the variable shape of bogs and the varying depths of their carbon-rich soil, known as peat, present significant challenges in accurately assessing their carbon storage potential.
Previous methods for measuring carbon stocks in peatlands often relied on labour-intensive onsite sampling, which was impractical for the vast and inaccessible expanses of many tropical peatlands. This innovative approach reduces the need for onsite sampling and provides valuable insights into the morphology of bogs, allowing for more accurate assessments of their carbon storage capacity and water flow patterns.
The development of this new method represents a significant breakthrough in peatland research and conservation, offering a powerful tool for policymakers, conservationists, and land managers to better understand and protect these critical ecosystems. By accurately quantifying the carbon stored in peatlands, governments can make informed decisions about land-use planning and prioritise conservation efforts to mitigate carbon emissions and prevent wildfires.
Moreover, the insights gained from this research have far-reaching implications for global climate change mitigation strategies. Peatlands cover only about three per cent of the Earth’s land surface but store more carbon per area than any other terrestrial ecosystem.
Therefore, protecting and restoring peatlands through methods such as rewetting, which involves blocking drainage channels to maintain wet conditions, is a highly effective nature-based solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preserving biodiversity.
Dr Alex Cobb, Senior Principal Research Scientist at SMART and the Lead Author of the Study emphasised the significance of the team’s findings, stating, “Peatlands have acted as huge stores of carbon since before the time of the dinosaurs. In fact, modern coal deposits started as peatlands. The finding makes it possible to describe and compare the shape of bogs anywhere, enabling us to protect and restore these vital ecosystems effectively.”
Dr René Dommain, Senior Research Fellow at NTU’s Earth Observatory of Singapore and co-author of the study underscored the practical applications of the research, stating, “We can accurately measure the amount of carbon stored in peatlands and identify areas at risk of fire or degradation due to human activities. This work lays the foundation for successful peatland restoration efforts and contributes to global climate change mitigation.”
Published in the prestigious scientific journal Nature, this groundbreaking research represents a significant step forward in the understanding of peatlands and their role in global carbon cycling.
Moving forward, the researchers plan to expand their analyses to remote peatland regions of the tropics and develop tools to estimate carbon stocks with greater precision, further advancing the ability to protect and restore these invaluable ecosystems for generations to come.
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Singapore’s tech landscape is set for a new trajectory with the appointment of Mr Russell Tham, Head of Emerging Technologies at Temasek Holdings Pte Ltd, as the Chairman of the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) Board. Effective from March 15, 2024, Mr Tham succeeds Mr Chan Yeng Kit, who served as Chairman for nine years.
Mr Tham, an IMDA Board Member since October 2020 and Chairperson of the Technology Sub-Committee since April 2023, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His expertise in advising IMDA on digital technologies and policy implications positions him well to lead IMDA into the next phase of Singapore’s tech journey.
The Ministry of Communications and Information (MCI) and IMDA expressed deep appreciation for Mr. Chan’s leadership. As Mr. Tham assumes the chairmanship, there is anticipation of continued guidance and leadership in shaping Singapore’s tech landscape in the years ahead.
Mr Chan, also the Permanent Secretary (Health), has had a profound impact on Singapore’s tech evolution. His tenure saw the merger of Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) and the Media Development Authority (MDA) into IMDA in 2016, aligning with Singapore’s Smart Nation vision. Under his stewardship, initiatives like the Intelligent Nation 2015 (iN2015) Masterplan and the Infocomm Media 2025 (ICM 2025) Masterplan laid the groundwork for Singapore’s digital future.
IMDA continued to shape Singapore’s Digital Future. From deploying 5G standalone wireless networks to upgrading the Nationwide Broadband Network for 10Gbps access, the agency has spearheaded future-ready digital infrastructure. Initiatives like SMEs Go Digital, CTO-as-a-Service, and TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) have propelled digitalisation across enterprises while fostering a globally competitive digital workforce.
Mr Chan’s leadership extended IMDA’s influence globally, showcasing Singaporean creations on various platforms. Domestically, he championed a safe and inclusive Digital Society, engaging seniors and collaborating with the private sector through the Digital for Life national movement.
Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) is ramping up efforts to expand and elevate the nation’s tech talent pool while prioritising the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI). With a focus on pre-employment training and mid-career upskilling programs, IMDA aims to cultivate a skilled workforce capable of driving AI innovation across industries.
IMDA is investing $20 million over three years to bolster AI-related SG Digital Scholarships and overseas internships, providing students with invaluable industry exposure and hands-on experience. These efforts align with IMDA’s commitment to scale up the TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA) program and offer over 180 AI-related courses under the Information and Communications (I&C) Jobs Transformation Map (JTM).
IMDA’s collaboration with industry partners and associations aims to create job opportunities and foster skills-based hiring practices. The TeSA for ITE and Polytechnics Alliance (TIP Alliance) has secured 800 good tech job opportunities for graduates, while over 200 companies have pledged support for skills-based hiring, doubling since its launch.
To enhance students’ industry readiness, ITE and Polytechnic students now undergo year-long internships, providing them with immersive experiences and valuable skill development opportunities. IMDA’s co-funding support for stipends facilitates companies in offering these extended internships, ensuring students gain practical insights into tech roles.
IMDA’s comprehensive approach to talent development and AI adoption underscores Singapore’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of tech innovation. By nurturing a robust talent pipeline and fostering industry collaboration, IMDA aims to propel Singapore’s tech ecosystem towards sustained growth and competitiveness in the global arena.
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Dr Sylwia Kolenderska, a Senior Research Investigator in Physics at the University of Canterbury, spearheads a pioneering project to transform the ophthalmology landscape. Her innovative work harnesses the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionise the accessibility and affordability of optical coherence tomography (OCT), a pivotal imaging technique in assessing eye health. This endeavour holds immense promise for advancing ophthalmic care and underscores AI’s profound impact in pushing the boundaries of medical innovation.
OCT is often described as a light-based counterpart to ultrasound imaging and generates three-dimensional internal images of the eyes. These images are invaluable for ophthalmologists in diagnosing and monitoring various eye conditions. However, the high cost of traditional OCT equipment has limited its accessibility, particularly for researchers and clinicians in resource-constrained environments.
Dr Kolenderska’s research addresses this issue by leveraging AI to improve the data processing capabilities of OCT machines. She identified a key bottleneck in current expensive machines: the time-consuming process of calculating high-resolution images from raw signals. She aims to enhance the image quality of cheaper, lower-resolution OCT machines to match or surpass that of expensive models by developing a neural network algorithm akin to a sophisticated software update.
“The potential impact of this technology is enormous,” said Dr Kolenderska. “Not only will it make high-quality OCT imaging more affordable and accessible, but it could also lead to significant improvements in early detection and treatment of eye conditions.”
The application of AI in OCT data processing offers several advantages. AI algorithms identify complex patterns in data, enabling them to produce sharper and more detailed images than traditional algorithms. Dr Kolenderska estimates that the images generated by AI-enhanced OCT machines could be up to six times better than current images.
Moreover, the scalability of AI technology opens up possibilities for future hardware integration. Dr Kolenderska envisions a future where AI modules could be seamlessly attached to existing OCT machines, much like a USB stick, further democratising access to high-quality imaging capabilities.
In Asia Pacific, eye healthcare technology is making significant strides globally. According to a report by OpenGov Asia, in 2022, the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) announced a partnership with the Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR) to develop at least two projects aimed at treating patients of different ages suffering from lazy eye and other eye conditions. CEVR, established under the Innovation and Technology Commission’s platform for research and innovation, InnoHK, is at the forefront of innovative research in eye health care.
Amblyopia, a common visual impairment that reduces vision and 3D perception, requires retraining the brain to use information from both eyes. This is particularly challenging in adults due to reduced neuroplasticity and the brain’s full maturation with age.
In 2023, Hong Kong continued its innovative efforts in eye health care. A partnership between CEVR and DEFTA Partners was announced to advance technology transfer and commercialise eye and vision health research. Celebrated at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), this partnership will leverage DEFTA’s business network and CEVR’s research achievements to translate research outcomes into globally impactful products. The collaboration is expected to drive innovation in the eye and vision health field, addressing critical issues in the industry.
Dr Sylwia Kolenderska’s work in eye health care represents a significant advancement in the intersection of AI and medical imaging.
In the future, Dr Sylwia Kolenderska’s work is poised to have an even greater impact on the field of ophthalmology in New Zealand and beyond. As AI continues to evolve in this rapid technology landscape, its integration with medical imaging technologies like OCT holds immense promise for improving diagnostic accuracy, treatment efficacy, and patient outcomes.
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In a significant stride towards sustainable maritime practices, Singapore and Australia have solidified their commitment to collaborative environmental efforts by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish the Singapore-Australia Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC).
This landmark agreement, celebrated during the 9th Annual Leaders’ Meeting in Melbourne, marks a pivotal moment in maritime history, as both nations pledge to accelerate the decarbonisation and digitalisation of the shipping industry.
The MoU, inked by Mr Chee Hong Tat, Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Finance, and the Hon Catherine King MP, Australian Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, and Local Government, signifies a joint endeavour to propel maritime sustainability forward. It outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration, encompassing initiatives to develop zero or near-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emission fuel supply chains, establish requisite infrastructure, standardise protocols, and implement necessary training programs within the maritime sector.
Central to this collaboration is the exploration of digital solutions to streamline port operations, facilitate vessel movement, and enhance efficiency between the bustling hubs of Singapore and Australia. By fostering synergies between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Australian federal, state, and territorial authorities, as well as industry stakeholders, the partnership aims to optimise maritime logistics while minimising environmental impact.
Australia’s abundant renewable energy resources position it as a key producer of green marine fuels, complementing Singapore’s status as a global bunkering and transhipment hub. Leveraging Singapore’s robust research and innovation ecosystem alongside Australia’s renewable energy capabilities, the collaboration is poised to drive innovation and adoption of sustainable technologies within the maritime industry.
Anticipated outcomes of this partnership include the acceleration of zero or near-zero GHG emission technologies, bolstering the resilience and sustainability of global maritime supply chains. The collaborative efforts align closely with the objectives outlined in the Singapore-Australia Green Economy Agreement signed in October 2022, further underscoring the shared commitment to environmental stewardship.
Reflecting on the significance of the MoU, Mr Chee Hong Tat emphasised the collective resolve to harness expertise and resources towards scalable green and digital solutions. Likewise, Australian Minister Catherine King highlighted the partnership’s role in supporting the international maritime community’s decarbonisation objectives and facilitating Australia’s exports of clean renewable energy.
In addition to the MoU, the collaboration extends to research and development initiatives under the Australia-Singapore Initiative on Low Emissions Technologies for Maritime and Port Operations (ASLET). Through partnerships between the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Australia’s Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), supported by Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR), efforts will focus on reducing costs and improving the readiness of low emissions fuels and technologies within maritime and port operations.
The ASLET initiative, announced in 2021, underscores the shared commitment of Singapore and Australia to drive innovation and sustainability within the maritime sector. By collectively addressing key areas such as cost reduction, technical readiness, and infrastructure cooperation, the partnership aims to pioneer solutions that will shape the future of maritime transportation on a global scale.
Along the same lines, OpenGov Asia covered the recent Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between the Ministry of Transport of Singapore (MOT) and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan (MLIT). This agreement, inked by Mr Tat of Singapore and Mr. Saito Tetsuo of Japan, establishes the Singapore-Japan Green and Digital Shipping Corridor.
At its core, the collaboration aims to set standards and practices focusing on decarbonisation, digitalisation, and industry expansion in maritime sectors. With Japan being one of Singapore’s top ten trade partners, boasting bilateral trade of S$65 billion in 2022, the partnership holds considerable significance and potential impact.
The establishment of these Green and Digital Shipping Corridor heralds a new era of collaboration and innovation in maritime sustainability. By harnessing the strengths of both nations and fostering cross-sector partnerships, this initiative is poised to catalyse transformative change within the maritime industry, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.