Singapore reaffirms maritime safety stance following recent incidents

“On the operational front, recent incidents reinforce the need for us to pay close attention to maritime safety,” Lui Tuck Yew, Singapore Minister of Transport said at the Singapore Maritime Foundation’s 2015 New Year reception on Friday.

Over the last few weeks a Singapore-registered barge grounded on Pedra Branca, a collision between a bulker and a tanker in Singapore waters caused the 4,500 tonne oil spill and four Singaporeans were among 22 who died when a tugboat provisionally registered with the Singapore-flag capsized on Thursday in China.

“MPA (Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore) is working closely with the industry to undertake a holistic review of the safety framework to prevent marine incidents.

“An industry-wide Safety @ Sea campaign was launched last year to highlight safe practices and inculcate a safety culture at sea.”

There was particular concern that the maritime industries could be seen as having an image of being dangerous and thereby discouraging young people from taking up a career in the sector.