(http://www.AugustEnergy.biz/, December 31, Thursday) --- MPA press release...
PORT MARINE NOTICE
NO. 184 of 2009
30 Dec 2009
Shipping Community
Harbour Craft Community
Applicable to: Mariners operating in the vicinity of Vopak terminal and East Jurong Channel
Date : With effect from 04 Jan 2010 to 03 Jul 2010.
Location : Off East Jurong Channel, within an area bounded by the following coordinates
WGS 84 Datum
Point Latitude (N) Longitude (E)
1 01° 17.892’ 103° 43.874’
2 01° 17.816’ 103° 43.843’
3 01° 17.786’ 103° 43.917’
4 01° 17.862’ 103° 43.948’
Working Hours : 24 hours daily including Sundays and Public Holidays.
Craft : Name Harbour Craft Licence No. Description
Antara Koh PB III SR 0838 I Piling Barge
Antara Koh B7 SR 1218 A Crane Barge
POE 1506 SR 2072 I Crane Barge
Antara Koh 98 SR 2727 H Work Barge
Antara Koh B5 SR 0571 A Work Barge
Eng Tou 64 SR 0437 E Work Barge
Antara Koh AB2 ST 1041 J Tug Boat
Antara Koh AB8 ST 1231 F Tug Boat
SK 3 ST 0007 E Tug Boat
SK 7 ST 0127 F Tug Boat
- SR 0722 F Passenger/Safety Boat
These craft will exhibit the appropriate local and international day and night
signals.
Details : The repair work will be carried out by the crane barges with suspension
hammer.
4 anchors will be laid to hold the crane barges in position within the
working area. Each anchor will be marked with a lighted marker buoys to
indicate the anchor wire touchdown points.
Safety craft will be in attendance during the entire period of stay of the
work area.
Caution : When in the vicinity of the working area, mariners are reminded to:
(a) keep well clear of the lighted marker buoys and not to enter the
working area;
(b) maintain a proper lookout;
(c) proceed at a safe speed and navigate with caution;
(d) maintain a listening watch on VHF Channel 25; and
(e) communicate with Pasir Panjang Control on VHF Channel 25 for assistance, if required.
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Thursday, December 31, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
SINGAPORE: Keppel O&M wins marine contracts worth S$165 million from Petrobras and Saipem
(http://www.augustenergy.biz/, December 3, Thursday --- Article from EnergyAsia ...
(http://www.energyasia.com/) --- Singapore’s Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd said it has secured two marine contracts worth a total of about $165 million through subsidiaries Keppel Shipyard Limited and Keppel Verolme BV. (US$1=S$1.38).
The first project, secured by Keppel Shipyard from repeat customer Petrobras Netherlands BV (PNBV), is for the pre-conversion of P-58, a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel for the Campos Basin in Brazil.
The second project involves the repair and modification of the semisubmersible pipelay vessel, Castoro Sei for Italian oil and gas contractor Saipem SpA by Keppel Verolme.
Keppel Shipyard’s scope of work on P-58 includes structural and piping renewal, tank coating as well as refurbishment and upgrading of the accommodation. When completed in the first quarter of 2011, the vessel will sail to Brazil for the rest of the conversion which includes completion works of the topsides.
P-58 will have a production capacity of 180,000 barrels of oil per day (b/d) and gas compression capacity of 6 million cubic metres per day. It will operate in Parque das Baleias’ north field, in the Campos Basin and spread moored in a water depth of 1,400 metres.
Tong Chong Heong, CEO of Keppel O&M, said: “As a group, Keppel O&M has built a strong reputation and a trusted brand name for diverse projects with safe and efficient turnaround.
“We hope that with our versatility, experience and expertise, we continue to be provider of choice for the international market.”
Renato de Souza Duque, Petrobras’ services director, said:
“We know Keppel very well. They have completed many projects for us successfully and have demonstrated excellent project management and reliability. We look forward to another high quality project from them.”
Keppel Shipyard’s projects for Petrobras and Brazil currently also include the major conversion of FPSO P-57, FPSO BW Pioneer and FPSO Peregrino as well as the modification and upgrading of FPSO Capixaba. At present, Keppel Shipyard is carrying out seven other major conversions and upgrading projects at its yards.
Over in the Netherlands, Keppel Verolme has been tasked to overhaul four thrusters, install new stinger handling support rails and repair and modify the onboard gantry cranes and fendering system of Castoro Sei. The semisubmersible pipelay vessel will also undergo an extensive hull blasting and painting programme.
Work on Castoro Sei is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2010. It will be deployed for the Nord Stream project, a gas pipeline which will link Russia and the European Union via the Baltic Sea.
Tiziano Zarbo, Saipem Asset manager for offshore fleet, said: “We had an excellent working experience with Keppel Verolme on the recent drydocking of Saipem 7000. Considering the time constraints and technical difficulties involved, we are pleased to again partner Keppel Verolme which has proven to be a reliable partner to Saipem.”
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(http://www.energyasia.com/) --- Singapore’s Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd said it has secured two marine contracts worth a total of about $165 million through subsidiaries Keppel Shipyard Limited and Keppel Verolme BV. (US$1=S$1.38).
The first project, secured by Keppel Shipyard from repeat customer Petrobras Netherlands BV (PNBV), is for the pre-conversion of P-58, a floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel for the Campos Basin in Brazil.
The second project involves the repair and modification of the semisubmersible pipelay vessel, Castoro Sei for Italian oil and gas contractor Saipem SpA by Keppel Verolme.
Keppel Shipyard’s scope of work on P-58 includes structural and piping renewal, tank coating as well as refurbishment and upgrading of the accommodation. When completed in the first quarter of 2011, the vessel will sail to Brazil for the rest of the conversion which includes completion works of the topsides.
P-58 will have a production capacity of 180,000 barrels of oil per day (b/d) and gas compression capacity of 6 million cubic metres per day. It will operate in Parque das Baleias’ north field, in the Campos Basin and spread moored in a water depth of 1,400 metres.
Tong Chong Heong, CEO of Keppel O&M, said: “As a group, Keppel O&M has built a strong reputation and a trusted brand name for diverse projects with safe and efficient turnaround.
“We hope that with our versatility, experience and expertise, we continue to be provider of choice for the international market.”
Renato de Souza Duque, Petrobras’ services director, said:
“We know Keppel very well. They have completed many projects for us successfully and have demonstrated excellent project management and reliability. We look forward to another high quality project from them.”
Keppel Shipyard’s projects for Petrobras and Brazil currently also include the major conversion of FPSO P-57, FPSO BW Pioneer and FPSO Peregrino as well as the modification and upgrading of FPSO Capixaba. At present, Keppel Shipyard is carrying out seven other major conversions and upgrading projects at its yards.
Over in the Netherlands, Keppel Verolme has been tasked to overhaul four thrusters, install new stinger handling support rails and repair and modify the onboard gantry cranes and fendering system of Castoro Sei. The semisubmersible pipelay vessel will also undergo an extensive hull blasting and painting programme.
Work on Castoro Sei is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2010. It will be deployed for the Nord Stream project, a gas pipeline which will link Russia and the European Union via the Baltic Sea.
Tiziano Zarbo, Saipem Asset manager for offshore fleet, said: “We had an excellent working experience with Keppel Verolme on the recent drydocking of Saipem 7000. Considering the time constraints and technical difficulties involved, we are pleased to again partner Keppel Verolme which has proven to be a reliable partner to Saipem.”
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Monday, November 30, 2009
MARKETS: Plunge in freight rates spurs oil storage at sea
(http://www.augustenergy.biz/, November 30, Monday --- Article from EnergyAsia ...
(http://www.energyasia.com/) --- The decline in freight rates is encouraging companies to charter tankers to store more oil products at sea, said Simpson Spence and Young, the world’s second-largest shipbroker.
In a research report, the broker reported that in October, traders had chartered 112 tankers with a combined 13.1 million deadweight tonnes to store oil products, up from 96 vessels with a total capacity of 11.3 million tonnes in September.
Rental costs have plunged, with the cost of hiring super tankers for a year down 43% this year to US$31,500 a day, the broker said in the report.
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(http://www.energyasia.com/) --- The decline in freight rates is encouraging companies to charter tankers to store more oil products at sea, said Simpson Spence and Young, the world’s second-largest shipbroker.
In a research report, the broker reported that in October, traders had chartered 112 tankers with a combined 13.1 million deadweight tonnes to store oil products, up from 96 vessels with a total capacity of 11.3 million tonnes in September.
Rental costs have plunged, with the cost of hiring super tankers for a year down 43% this year to US$31,500 a day, the broker said in the report.
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Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Quality buyers shore up Schat-Harding orderbook
(http://www.august.energy.biz/, November 24, Tuesday) --- Article from Merlin Communications ...
Despite a rapidly contracting global shipbuilding orderbook, the world’s leading lifeboat and davit manufacturer, Schat-Harding, has secured a healthy US$10.6m of orders for new equipment in the last three months.
The orders cover all types of shipping and offshore units, including orders for new ferries, FPSOs, containerships and warships. The contracts also have a good geographical spread as clients in Korea, Singapore, Mexico, Norway, Germany and China have shown their confidence in Schat-Harding.
Per Einar Gjerding, Director Sales and Marketing, Schat-Harding, says, “We see three reasons why we have been selected on many projects recently. First of all, only the healthiest projects by the strongest owners are being realised these days. They want quality. Secondly, it is important for the shipyards, as our clients, to deliver quality to their clients on the few projects they are awarded these days. They do not gamble. And thirdly, we have worked hard internally with very dedicated and hard working teams to ensure clients get what they need. Our offshore team has been especially effective.”
In Korea, the single largest market for Schat-Harding, both Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering and STX Offshore & Shipbuilding have placed orders. Two ferries building for Greek owner Blue Star Ferries at Daewoo will have Schat-Harding MPC32 lifeboats and Stinger fast rescue boats. At STX the FSU building for IOOC will have KISS system boats and davits and also the Stinger fast rescue boat.
In Singapore, Modec has awarded the supply of lifesaving equipment to Schat-Harding for its PSVM FPSO conversion project for BP. It will be fitted with four KISS systems and the Stinger fast rescue craft. Otto Marine Ltd has chosen Schat-Harding KISS systems for a multipurpose vessel building for Norshore.
Mexico’s Pemex has recently ordered four more conventional lifeboat systems for its Litoral Tabasco project. These will be built at Schat-Harding’s dedicated Americas facility in Louisiana, USA.
Gjerding says, “This strong performance in a contracting and difficult market vindicates our focus on quality, and also on post-sales support. Owners need to know that the support and spares they need to keep their lifesaving equipment in good working order will be there for the future. It is also good to note that the strong orderbook contains a spread of new products, such as our very successful Stinger fast rescue boat, and also our tried and tested products such as the MPC32 cruise ship lifeboat and the simple but effective KISS lifeboats and VIP davits.”
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Despite a rapidly contracting global shipbuilding orderbook, the world’s leading lifeboat and davit manufacturer, Schat-Harding, has secured a healthy US$10.6m of orders for new equipment in the last three months.
The orders cover all types of shipping and offshore units, including orders for new ferries, FPSOs, containerships and warships. The contracts also have a good geographical spread as clients in Korea, Singapore, Mexico, Norway, Germany and China have shown their confidence in Schat-Harding.
Per Einar Gjerding, Director Sales and Marketing, Schat-Harding, says, “We see three reasons why we have been selected on many projects recently. First of all, only the healthiest projects by the strongest owners are being realised these days. They want quality. Secondly, it is important for the shipyards, as our clients, to deliver quality to their clients on the few projects they are awarded these days. They do not gamble. And thirdly, we have worked hard internally with very dedicated and hard working teams to ensure clients get what they need. Our offshore team has been especially effective.”
In Korea, the single largest market for Schat-Harding, both Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering and STX Offshore & Shipbuilding have placed orders. Two ferries building for Greek owner Blue Star Ferries at Daewoo will have Schat-Harding MPC32 lifeboats and Stinger fast rescue boats. At STX the FSU building for IOOC will have KISS system boats and davits and also the Stinger fast rescue boat.
In Singapore, Modec has awarded the supply of lifesaving equipment to Schat-Harding for its PSVM FPSO conversion project for BP. It will be fitted with four KISS systems and the Stinger fast rescue craft. Otto Marine Ltd has chosen Schat-Harding KISS systems for a multipurpose vessel building for Norshore.
Mexico’s Pemex has recently ordered four more conventional lifeboat systems for its Litoral Tabasco project. These will be built at Schat-Harding’s dedicated Americas facility in Louisiana, USA.
Gjerding says, “This strong performance in a contracting and difficult market vindicates our focus on quality, and also on post-sales support. Owners need to know that the support and spares they need to keep their lifesaving equipment in good working order will be there for the future. It is also good to note that the strong orderbook contains a spread of new products, such as our very successful Stinger fast rescue boat, and also our tried and tested products such as the MPC32 cruise ship lifeboat and the simple but effective KISS lifeboats and VIP davits.”
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Friday, November 20, 2009
SINGAPORE: Stolt-Nielsen keeping storage project on hold
(http://www.augustenergy.biz/, November 20, Friday --- Article from EnergyAsia ...
(http://www.energyasia.com/) --- Norwegian shipping group Stolt-Nielsen is delaying construction of a chemical storage tank terminal in Jurong Island in Singapore until it receives firm commitments from clients to use the facility.
The company had announced plans to build the terminal early last year, with completion due for for end-2009.
Ten oil and petrochemical companies have submitted letters of intent to use the facility, which could cost as much as S$200 million, but none have signed any contracts yet. The Norwegian firm expects several of the companies to make a decision by the end of this year. (US$1=S$1.39).
Potential customers include Shell and ExxonMobil, which are setting up petrochemical complexes in Singapore within the next two years.
Stolt-Nielsen had put the terminal project on hold last year because of the global financial crisis.
If completed, the terminal could store between 250,000-300,000 cubic metres of chemicals.
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(http://www.energyasia.com/) --- Norwegian shipping group Stolt-Nielsen is delaying construction of a chemical storage tank terminal in Jurong Island in Singapore until it receives firm commitments from clients to use the facility.
The company had announced plans to build the terminal early last year, with completion due for for end-2009.
Ten oil and petrochemical companies have submitted letters of intent to use the facility, which could cost as much as S$200 million, but none have signed any contracts yet. The Norwegian firm expects several of the companies to make a decision by the end of this year. (US$1=S$1.39).
Potential customers include Shell and ExxonMobil, which are setting up petrochemical complexes in Singapore within the next two years.
Stolt-Nielsen had put the terminal project on hold last year because of the global financial crisis.
If completed, the terminal could store between 250,000-300,000 cubic metres of chemicals.
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Thursday, November 19, 2009
Cargoship Maritime BV to restructure time charters
(http://www.august.energy.biz/, November 19, Thursday) --- Article from Merlin Communications...
Cargoship Maritime BV, a Netherlands-based vessel operating company, has entered into talks for restructuring its time charter portfolio. The aim is to renegotiate the time charters of the vessels in the company to better reflect market prospects. The renegotiation will affect time charters of twenty-two ships currently trading, mostly tankers, and thirteen different owners.
All of the vessels affected by the renegotiation are commercially managed by Netherlands-based Seaarland Shipping Management BV. Antonio Zacchello, managing director of Seaarland Shipping Management says, “The world has changed in a way few could have anticipated and shipping in general has entered a very tough period. We all have to adjust to that. The charters within the company were made in different times and are not sustainable in this market. We need to renegotiate the charter rates and periods in order to allow the company to carry on its business and be positioned for the future when the market will recover and the company can resume its charter obligations. We will present everyone involved with a restructuring plan which will be balanced and equal and if that is accepted we can continue payments and the company can go on. Meanwhile we can continue to trade, which benefits all parties. We have the support of our banks and if everyone involved behaves sensibly we can see a clear way forward which avoids dissolving the company.”
The restructuring of Cargoship Maritime does not involve other companies managed by Seaarland.
In move to ensure that the restructuring of the time charter fleet does not affect pool partners, the time chartered vessels in Cargoship have been withdrawn from the Handytankers, Aframax International and Baumarine pools.
The agency agreement for marketing the Handytankers Pool and Aframax International Pool will be terminated and the activity for these regions will be relocated to pool managers Maersk and OSG respectively. The joint venture agreement covering the Suezmax International Pool between OSG and Seaarland has also been terminated. Pool management of Suezmax International is now carried out entirely by OSG.
Singapore-based Global Tanker Pool is unaffected by the Cargoship time charter renegotiation. It will continue to be managed out of Singapore and none of the vessels chartered by Cargoship are entered in the pool.
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Cargoship Maritime BV, a Netherlands-based vessel operating company, has entered into talks for restructuring its time charter portfolio. The aim is to renegotiate the time charters of the vessels in the company to better reflect market prospects. The renegotiation will affect time charters of twenty-two ships currently trading, mostly tankers, and thirteen different owners.
All of the vessels affected by the renegotiation are commercially managed by Netherlands-based Seaarland Shipping Management BV. Antonio Zacchello, managing director of Seaarland Shipping Management says, “The world has changed in a way few could have anticipated and shipping in general has entered a very tough period. We all have to adjust to that. The charters within the company were made in different times and are not sustainable in this market. We need to renegotiate the charter rates and periods in order to allow the company to carry on its business and be positioned for the future when the market will recover and the company can resume its charter obligations. We will present everyone involved with a restructuring plan which will be balanced and equal and if that is accepted we can continue payments and the company can go on. Meanwhile we can continue to trade, which benefits all parties. We have the support of our banks and if everyone involved behaves sensibly we can see a clear way forward which avoids dissolving the company.”
The restructuring of Cargoship Maritime does not involve other companies managed by Seaarland.
In move to ensure that the restructuring of the time charter fleet does not affect pool partners, the time chartered vessels in Cargoship have been withdrawn from the Handytankers, Aframax International and Baumarine pools.
The agency agreement for marketing the Handytankers Pool and Aframax International Pool will be terminated and the activity for these regions will be relocated to pool managers Maersk and OSG respectively. The joint venture agreement covering the Suezmax International Pool between OSG and Seaarland has also been terminated. Pool management of Suezmax International is now carried out entirely by OSG.
Singapore-based Global Tanker Pool is unaffected by the Cargoship time charter renegotiation. It will continue to be managed out of Singapore and none of the vessels chartered by Cargoship are entered in the pool.
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Tuesday, November 10, 2009
IBIA warns of forthcoming ECA conflicts for passenger ships
(http://www.august.energy.biz/, November 10, Tuesday) --- IBIA press release...
THE International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has warned that, from July of next year, passenger ships operating in European territorial waters could, during the course of one single voyage, be subject to three different limits regulating the amount of sulphur content in the fuels they consume.
This situation results from a reduction, from 1.50 per to 1.00 per cent, in the maximum allowable sulphur content of fuels used by ships operating in designated Emission Control Areas (ECAs) covering the Baltic and North Sea/English Channel. This compares with the 1.50 per cent sulphur limit applicable to passenger ships when operating on a regular service to or from EC ports under European law.
Ian Adams, chief executive of IBIA, explains, “Under this scenario, a passenger vessel leaving Northern Europe for a Mediterranean cruise will be required, with effect from 1 July next year, to burn a maximum 1.00 per cent sulphur fuel in the Baltic and North Sea and a maximum 1.50 per cent in the Mediterranean, while potentially being able to burn 4.50 per cent outside EU territorial waters.
“IBIA understands that, since the rules covering passenger ship emissions are contained in an EU directive, they are not affected by any change in the IMO standard for ECAs. The only way in which this apparent anomaly can be addressed is by a revision of EU Directive 1999/32/EC, which covers the sulphur content of liquid fuels derived from petroleum, including those used by seagoing ships.
“Absent any amendment of the EU directive, owners, operators and their bunker suppliers will need to exercise extreme vigilance in ensuring that they do not fall foul of the regulations come July of next year, or simply play safe by opting to use a maximum 1.00 per cent sulphur fuel at all times.”
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THE International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has warned that, from July of next year, passenger ships operating in European territorial waters could, during the course of one single voyage, be subject to three different limits regulating the amount of sulphur content in the fuels they consume.
This situation results from a reduction, from 1.50 per to 1.00 per cent, in the maximum allowable sulphur content of fuels used by ships operating in designated Emission Control Areas (ECAs) covering the Baltic and North Sea/English Channel. This compares with the 1.50 per cent sulphur limit applicable to passenger ships when operating on a regular service to or from EC ports under European law.
Ian Adams, chief executive of IBIA, explains, “Under this scenario, a passenger vessel leaving Northern Europe for a Mediterranean cruise will be required, with effect from 1 July next year, to burn a maximum 1.00 per cent sulphur fuel in the Baltic and North Sea and a maximum 1.50 per cent in the Mediterranean, while potentially being able to burn 4.50 per cent outside EU territorial waters.
“IBIA understands that, since the rules covering passenger ship emissions are contained in an EU directive, they are not affected by any change in the IMO standard for ECAs. The only way in which this apparent anomaly can be addressed is by a revision of EU Directive 1999/32/EC, which covers the sulphur content of liquid fuels derived from petroleum, including those used by seagoing ships.
“Absent any amendment of the EU directive, owners, operators and their bunker suppliers will need to exercise extreme vigilance in ensuring that they do not fall foul of the regulations come July of next year, or simply play safe by opting to use a maximum 1.00 per cent sulphur fuel at all times.”
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Sunday, November 8, 2009
APEC Singapore 2009
(http://www.AugustEnergy.biz/, November 09, Monday) --- MPA press release...
PORT MARINE NOTICE
NO. 160 of 2009
6 Nov 2009
Shipping Community
Harbour Craft Community
Pleasure Craft Community
1 The APEC Singapore 2009 will be held from 08 Nov 2009 till 15 Nov 2009.
2 In conjunction with the APEC Singapore 2009 and in exercise of the powers
conferred under Reg 45 (2) of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (Port)
Regulations, the Port Master hereby prohibits all vessels from anchoring in the
demarcated area at the Eastern Anchorage (AEW) as shown in the attached chartlet. This
prohibition shall take effect on the (Sat) 14 Nov 09 from 1600hrs to 2359hrs.
3 The demarcated area referred to in the preceding paragraph is bounded by the
following coordinates.
Point Latitude (N) Longitude (E)
1 1°17.23’ 103°53.01’
2 1°17.00’ 103°53.19’
3 1°15.76’ 103°51.69’
4 1°16.01’ 103°51.66’
5 1°16.26’ 103°51.33’
4 Vessels that are currently anchored within the demarcated area are required to shift
out of the area by 1300hrs on 14 Nov 09.
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PORT MARINE NOTICE
NO. 160 of 2009
6 Nov 2009
Shipping Community
Harbour Craft Community
Pleasure Craft Community
1 The APEC Singapore 2009 will be held from 08 Nov 2009 till 15 Nov 2009.
2 In conjunction with the APEC Singapore 2009 and in exercise of the powers
conferred under Reg 45 (2) of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (Port)
Regulations, the Port Master hereby prohibits all vessels from anchoring in the
demarcated area at the Eastern Anchorage (AEW) as shown in the attached chartlet. This
prohibition shall take effect on the (Sat) 14 Nov 09 from 1600hrs to 2359hrs.
3 The demarcated area referred to in the preceding paragraph is bounded by the
following coordinates.
Point Latitude (N) Longitude (E)
1 1°17.23’ 103°53.01’
2 1°17.00’ 103°53.19’
3 1°15.76’ 103°51.69’
4 1°16.01’ 103°51.66’
5 1°16.26’ 103°51.33’
4 Vessels that are currently anchored within the demarcated area are required to shift
out of the area by 1300hrs on 14 Nov 09.
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Tuesday, October 20, 2009
SINGAPORE: IMO fund raises Straits of Malacca stakeholders’ co-operation to a new high
(www.AugustEnergy.biz, October 20, Tuesday) --- From EnergyAsia...
Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have concluded a joint technical arrangement with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for a trust fund that supports co-operation among stakeholders in enhancing safety and marine environment protection in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
With an initial contribution of US$1 million from Greece, the fund advances a UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) provision for international co-operation in maintaining the straits for international navigation since the establishment of the historic Co-operative Mechanism in 2007.
The agremment was signed by the heads of the maritime administrations of the three Southeast Asian countries and the director of Maritime Safety Division of the IMO during the recent 2nd Co-operative Forum hosted by Singapore.
Singapore’s Transport Minister and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs, Raymond Lim, said: “The Straits remains one of the busiest and most important shipping lanes in the world. I am heartened by the collective interest and commitment of coastal and user States to work together to ensure that the Straits of Malacca and Singapore remain safe and open to shipping.”
He praised the progress made by the Co-operative Mechanism, but highlighted the challenge to sustain interest and encourage participation and contributions from existing as well as new stakeholders.
He stressed that this was critical “as a third of the world's trade and half of its oil passed through the Straits.”
He said: “The Co-operative Mechanism is timely to promote and facilitate international cooperation in this important waterway and that the institutionalisation of the IMO Trust Fund is a very welcome development.”
Mr Lim later presented letters of recognition to the heads of delegations of Australia, China, Greece, India, Japan and the US attending the meeting.
These countries were recognised for their active contributions towards implementing the six initial projects under the Co-operative Mechanism including (i) removal of wrecks in the Straits (ii) enhancing preparedness and response capability against hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) incidents (iii) demonstration trial of AIS class-B transponders (iv) wind, tide and current measurement system (v) replacement and maintenance of navigation aids and (vi) replacement of navigation aids damaged by tsunami off Sumatra.
MPA chief executive Lam Yi Young said that “the co-operation between Straits users and the three littoral states since the establishment of the Co-operative Mechanism has been very encouraging. Going forward, we can expect greater collaboration among Straits stakeholders in ensuring safety and the protection of the marine environment in these important straits used for international navigation.”
The IMO director of Maritime Safety Division (MSD) Koji Sekimizu said: “The fact that the three littoral states have acted in such a timely manner and continue to display a strong determination to move matters forward, thereby building on the momentum established by the IMO-sponsored meetings, to be extremely positive and encouraging.”
Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have concluded a joint technical arrangement with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for a trust fund that supports co-operation among stakeholders in enhancing safety and marine environment protection in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
With an initial contribution of US$1 million from Greece, the fund advances a UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) provision for international co-operation in maintaining the straits for international navigation since the establishment of the historic Co-operative Mechanism in 2007.
The agremment was signed by the heads of the maritime administrations of the three Southeast Asian countries and the director of Maritime Safety Division of the IMO during the recent 2nd Co-operative Forum hosted by Singapore.
Singapore’s Transport Minister and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs, Raymond Lim, said: “The Straits remains one of the busiest and most important shipping lanes in the world. I am heartened by the collective interest and commitment of coastal and user States to work together to ensure that the Straits of Malacca and Singapore remain safe and open to shipping.”
He praised the progress made by the Co-operative Mechanism, but highlighted the challenge to sustain interest and encourage participation and contributions from existing as well as new stakeholders.
He stressed that this was critical “as a third of the world's trade and half of its oil passed through the Straits.”
He said: “The Co-operative Mechanism is timely to promote and facilitate international cooperation in this important waterway and that the institutionalisation of the IMO Trust Fund is a very welcome development.”
Mr Lim later presented letters of recognition to the heads of delegations of Australia, China, Greece, India, Japan and the US attending the meeting.
These countries were recognised for their active contributions towards implementing the six initial projects under the Co-operative Mechanism including (i) removal of wrecks in the Straits (ii) enhancing preparedness and response capability against hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) incidents (iii) demonstration trial of AIS class-B transponders (iv) wind, tide and current measurement system (v) replacement and maintenance of navigation aids and (vi) replacement of navigation aids damaged by tsunami off Sumatra.
MPA chief executive Lam Yi Young said that “the co-operation between Straits users and the three littoral states since the establishment of the Co-operative Mechanism has been very encouraging. Going forward, we can expect greater collaboration among Straits stakeholders in ensuring safety and the protection of the marine environment in these important straits used for international navigation.”
The IMO director of Maritime Safety Division (MSD) Koji Sekimizu said: “The fact that the three littoral states have acted in such a timely manner and continue to display a strong determination to move matters forward, thereby building on the momentum established by the IMO-sponsored meetings, to be extremely positive and encouraging.”
EMSA Technical Meeting on use of 0.1% sulphur content fuel
(www.AugustEnergy.biz, October 19, Monday) --- INTERTANKO Bulletin...
EU Directive 2005/33/EC, also known as the EU Sulphur Directive, includes a provision (article 4b) which requires that as from January 1, 2010, when at berth (and/or at anchor) longer than two hours in a EU port, ships utilise 0.1% sulphur content fuel.
Compliance with such a provision would require an evaluation on whether current onboard installations, designed and made to run on residual fuels with regular sulphur content, need any adjustments and eventual upgrades.
Particular concern was expressed by INTERTANKO and OCIMF over the switch from HFO to ultra low sulphur content MGO into the auxiliary boilers of oil tankers. We have reported earlier this year on the various joint INTERTANKO/OCIMF meetings and discussions with the EU Commission and a large number of EU Member States.
It had become apparent for regulators that there is a need for a safety evaluation to be preformed across the industry. Therefore, EMSA called this meeting inviting ship owners, class and engine and boiler manufacturers to attend. The meeting considered a report on the Use of distillate fuels by ships at berth (also called AEA report) which identifies a number of areas of concern and implies there is a need for a safety evaluation since ships are to be required to use such a fuel.
INTERTANKO and OCIMF made a joint intervention to recommend that manufacturers perform risk assessments and provide safe solutions, as and if appropriate. Experience so far indicates that such evaluations and upgrades take quite some time. INTERTANKO and OCIMF asked for a phase-in period up to 1 January 2011 so enough number of tankers and their onboard installations could be safely evaluated and eventually modified.
The boiler manufacturers (Aalborg) and Class (IACS) presentations indicated that there is a need for such evaluations and that the process would take time beyond the deadline of 1 January 2010. It also pointed out that there is no standard to define and thus to check the required "marine fuel with a maximum 0.1% sulphur content". Concerns with regard to too low viscosity and to lack of lubricity were also added.
The EMSA meeting was of a technical nature. The EMSA and DG TREN representatives will prepare a report to the EU Commission, noting the facts as presented and the discussions during this meeting. It will be up to the Commission to assess and eventually suggest any follow-up action.
EU Directive 2005/33/EC, also known as the EU Sulphur Directive, includes a provision (article 4b) which requires that as from January 1, 2010, when at berth (and/or at anchor) longer than two hours in a EU port, ships utilise 0.1% sulphur content fuel.
Compliance with such a provision would require an evaluation on whether current onboard installations, designed and made to run on residual fuels with regular sulphur content, need any adjustments and eventual upgrades.
Particular concern was expressed by INTERTANKO and OCIMF over the switch from HFO to ultra low sulphur content MGO into the auxiliary boilers of oil tankers. We have reported earlier this year on the various joint INTERTANKO/OCIMF meetings and discussions with the EU Commission and a large number of EU Member States.
It had become apparent for regulators that there is a need for a safety evaluation to be preformed across the industry. Therefore, EMSA called this meeting inviting ship owners, class and engine and boiler manufacturers to attend. The meeting considered a report on the Use of distillate fuels by ships at berth (also called AEA report) which identifies a number of areas of concern and implies there is a need for a safety evaluation since ships are to be required to use such a fuel.
INTERTANKO and OCIMF made a joint intervention to recommend that manufacturers perform risk assessments and provide safe solutions, as and if appropriate. Experience so far indicates that such evaluations and upgrades take quite some time. INTERTANKO and OCIMF asked for a phase-in period up to 1 January 2011 so enough number of tankers and their onboard installations could be safely evaluated and eventually modified.
The boiler manufacturers (Aalborg) and Class (IACS) presentations indicated that there is a need for such evaluations and that the process would take time beyond the deadline of 1 January 2010. It also pointed out that there is no standard to define and thus to check the required "marine fuel with a maximum 0.1% sulphur content". Concerns with regard to too low viscosity and to lack of lubricity were also added.
The EMSA meeting was of a technical nature. The EMSA and DG TREN representatives will prepare a report to the EU Commission, noting the facts as presented and the discussions during this meeting. It will be up to the Commission to assess and eventually suggest any follow-up action.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Speech by Koji Sekimizu at IMO 2nd Co-Operation Forum Meeting
(http://www.AugustEnergy.biz/, October 15, Thursday) --- MPA press release...
(Speech by Director, Msd Mr. Koji Sekimizu, on behalf of The Secretary-General International Maritime Organization, at IMO 2nd C0-Operation Forum Meeting of the Cooperative Mechanism or The Straits of Malacca and Singapore, 14 October 2009, 9.30am at Singapore)
Opening address by
Mr. Koji Sekimizu, Director, MSD on behalf of the Secretary-General
International Maritime Organization
His Excellency, Mr. Raymond Lim,Minister of Transport of Singapore,
Distinguished participants,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a great pleasure for me to be with you here today to address this meeting, on behalf of the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization, Mr. Efthimios Mitropoulos, who regrettably could not attend himself, due to previous other commitments.
The importance of the Co-operation Forum cannot be over emphasized. It provides an opportunity for dialogue and open discussion among the littoral states and the users and forms an indispensable component of the Co-operative Mechanism for the Malacca and SingaporeStraits which was established as a main product of the IMO-sponsored meetings held in this region between 2005 and 2007 in co-operation with the Governments of Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.
When considering the outcome of the 2007 Singapore Meeting on the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, the IMO Council, at its twenty-fourth extraordinary session in November 2007, agreed that the Organization should contribute to the implementation of the Co-operative Mechanism. It authorized the Secretary-General to provide every assistance possible in attracting sponsors for the projects which will be implemented under the framework of the Co‑operative Mechanism, including promoting financial contributions for the establishment, maintenance, repair and replacement of aids to navigation in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
Pursuant to that decision and following the pledge by Greece, at the twenty-fifth regular session of the Assembly, to contribute US$1 million, we have established the IMO Malacca and Singapore Straits Trust Fund under the stewardship of the Secretary-General to support the projects identified by the littoral States.
I would like to stress here again today, that this IMO Fund is not to be perceived as competing with any funds the three littoral States already have established or may establish within the framework of the Co-operative Mechanism. It will, instead, have a complementary role to play. While the initiative for the mobilization of resources for the implementation of the project on aids to navigation in the Straits is left to the littoral States, IMO will support it, as feasible and within the financial limitations of the IMO Fund, while the Secretariat will take action to promote and implement other projects in conjunction with the 3 littoral States. In this context, the Secretary-General had initiated the development of the Joint Technical Arrangement between the littoral States and IMO on co-operation between them and the Organization on safety and environmental protection in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore (JTA), which has now been finalized, thanks to the strenuous efforts by all parties concerned. I am personally very pleased to be able to attend this meeting and join in the signing ceremony for the Joint Technical Arrangement which is expected to take place during this morning’s session on the occasion of the opening of this 2nd Co-operation Forum Meeting.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I consider the fact that the three littoral States have acted in such a timely manner and continue to display a strong determination to move matters forward, thereby building on the momentum established by the IMO‑sponsored meetings, to be extremely positive and encouraging. The Co‑operative Mechanism is now in full swing. I would like to take this opportunity of expressing sincere appreciation to all involved in the activities of the Co‑operative Mechanism and particularly those who provided significant contributions including: Australia, China, India, Japan, Republicof Korea, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, the Nippon Foundation, MENAS, and the Malacca Straits Council. In accordance with our Council’s decisions, the IMO Secretariat is fully engaged and provides every possible assistance in the implementation of the Co‑operative Mechanism and intends to contribute, through the IMO Fund, to the various projects to facilitate their execution. I am sure we all agree that this excellent progress initiated by the three littoral States, in the establishment and implementation of the Co-operative Mechanism is very commendable indeed and we are all looking forward to further fruitful developments in years to come.
In closing, I would like to reiterate my sincere thanks, on behalf of IMO, to the Government of Singapore for hosting the various meetings this week and for their generous hospitality. I also thank the Governments of Indonesia and Malaysia for their co-operation in preparing for these meetings to ensure their success.
Thank you.
Speech by Lam Yi Young at IMO 2nd Co-Operation Forum 2009
(http://www.AugustEnergy.biz/, October 15, Thursday) --- MPA press release...
Speech by Mr Lam Yi Young, Chief Executive, At 2nd Co-Operation Forum 2009, 14 October 2009, 9.30am
At Grand Copthrone Waterfront Hotel :
At Grand Copthrone Waterfront Hotel :
Mr Raymond Lim Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs
Mr Sunaryo, Director General, Indonesian Directorate General of Sea Transportation,
Dato’ Captain Ahmad Othman, Director General of Marine, Marine Department Malaysia,
Mr Koji Sekimizu, Director, Maritime Safety Division of the International Maritime Organisation,
Heads of Delegations,
Delegates,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen
A very good morning.
1. On behalf of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, I am pleased to welcome you to the 2nd Cooperation Forum.
2. The Co-operation Forum is one of the three main components of the Co-operative Mechanism framework. It provides a platform for all interested stakeholders – the littoral states, the key user states and other stakeholders of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore – to meet and discuss issues of navigational safety and marine environment protection in the Straits.
3. MPA is honoured to have the privilege of organising this important event this year and we are heartened by your participation here today. It is a clear indication of the importance that you attach to the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and the value you place on ensuring safety of navigation and protection of marine environment.
4. I am very pleased to note that we have some 140 delegates from 22 countries and 11 organisations attending this event today. Thank you very much for your participation and your support of the Co-operation Forum and the Co-operative Mechanism.
5. I am sure that all of us present here today share a collective interest and commitment in ensuring that the Straits of Malacca and Singapore remain safe, secure and open to all, so that trade that is critical to the world’s economy can carry on uninterrupted and unimpeded. Our presence in this Forum to exchange views and ideas on how to ensure this access amply demonstrates our collective interest and commitment.
6. The Co-operative Mechanism has indeed received strong endorsement and support since its launch in 2007. Representing a historic milestone for the international maritime community when it was launched, the progress made by the Co-operative Mechanism brings into further realisation the spirit of Article 43 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. This Article calls for co-operation amongst userStates and coastal States in the maintenance of straits used for international navigation, of which the Straits of Malacca and Singapore is one.
7. We have a full agenda and our work cut out for us over the next two days. We can expect to receive updates on the key developments in the various Straits projects; such as wreck removal, the maintenance of Aids to Navigation in the Straits, as well as Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) preparedness and response. This is just to name a few.
8. Finally, let me once again welcome all delegates to the 2nd Co-operation Forum and wish you two days of very fruitful discussion. For our friends from overseas, welcome to Singapore. I hope that besides work, you will also find time to enjoy the sights, sounds and taste of Singapore.
9. Thank you.
Mr Sunaryo, Director General, Indonesian Directorate General of Sea Transportation,
Dato’ Captain Ahmad Othman, Director General of Marine, Marine Department Malaysia,
Mr Koji Sekimizu, Director, Maritime Safety Division of the International Maritime Organisation,
Heads of Delegations,
Delegates,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen
A very good morning.
1. On behalf of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, I am pleased to welcome you to the 2nd Cooperation Forum.
2. The Co-operation Forum is one of the three main components of the Co-operative Mechanism framework. It provides a platform for all interested stakeholders – the littoral states, the key user states and other stakeholders of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore – to meet and discuss issues of navigational safety and marine environment protection in the Straits.
3. MPA is honoured to have the privilege of organising this important event this year and we are heartened by your participation here today. It is a clear indication of the importance that you attach to the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and the value you place on ensuring safety of navigation and protection of marine environment.
4. I am very pleased to note that we have some 140 delegates from 22 countries and 11 organisations attending this event today. Thank you very much for your participation and your support of the Co-operation Forum and the Co-operative Mechanism.
5. I am sure that all of us present here today share a collective interest and commitment in ensuring that the Straits of Malacca and Singapore remain safe, secure and open to all, so that trade that is critical to the world’s economy can carry on uninterrupted and unimpeded. Our presence in this Forum to exchange views and ideas on how to ensure this access amply demonstrates our collective interest and commitment.
6. The Co-operative Mechanism has indeed received strong endorsement and support since its launch in 2007. Representing a historic milestone for the international maritime community when it was launched, the progress made by the Co-operative Mechanism brings into further realisation the spirit of Article 43 of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea or UNCLOS. This Article calls for co-operation amongst userStates and coastal States in the maintenance of straits used for international navigation, of which the Straits of Malacca and Singapore is one.
7. We have a full agenda and our work cut out for us over the next two days. We can expect to receive updates on the key developments in the various Straits projects; such as wreck removal, the maintenance of Aids to Navigation in the Straits, as well as Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) preparedness and response. This is just to name a few.
8. Finally, let me once again welcome all delegates to the 2nd Co-operation Forum and wish you two days of very fruitful discussion. For our friends from overseas, welcome to Singapore. I hope that besides work, you will also find time to enjoy the sights, sounds and taste of Singapore.
9. Thank you.
IMO Fund Raises Straits Co-Operation to a new high
(http://www.AugustEnergy.biz/, October 15, Thursday) --- MPA press release...
Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore have concluded a Joint Technical Arrangement (JTA) with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to institutionalise an IMO Trust Fund that supports co-operation among stakeholders towards enhancing safety and marine environment protection in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
The Fund benefits from an initial contribution of US$1million from Greece and marks yet another major step forward in operationalising UNCLOS provision for international co-operation in the maintenance of straits used for international navigation since the establishment of the historic Co-operative Mechanism in 2007. The JTA was signed by the heads of the maritime administrations of the three littoral States and the Director of Maritime Safety Division of the IMO during the opening of 2nd Co-operative Forum hosted by Singapore.
Singapore’s Transport Minister and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs Raymond Lim said, “The Straits remains one of the busiest and most important shipping lanes in the world.I am heartened by the collective interest and commitment of coastal and user States to work together to ensure that the Straits of Malacca and Singapore remain safe and open to shipping.” Minister noted the good progress made by the Co-operative Mechanism, but highlighted that going forward, the challenge was to sustain interest and keep the momentum going, not only to entrench progress but also to encourage further participation and contributions from existing as well as new stakeholders.
He stressed that this was critical “as a third of the world’s trade and half of its oil passed through the Straits”. Minister Lim added that, “The Co-operative Mechanism is timely to promote and facilitate international cooperation in this important waterway and that the institutionalisation of the IMO Trust Fund is a very welcome development”.
Minister Lim later presented letters of recognition to the heads of delegations of Australia, China, Greece, India, Japan and the United States of America attending the Singapore meeting. These countries were recognised for their active contributions towards implementing the six initial projects under the Co-operative Mechanism, namely (i) Removal of Wrecks in the Straits; (ii) Enhancing Preparedness and Response Capability against Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS) incidents; (iii) Demonstration Trial of AIS Class B Transponders; (iv) Wind, Tide and Current Measurement System; (v) Replacement and Maintenance of Navigation Aids; and (vi) Replacement of Navigation Aids damaged by Tsunami off Sumatra.
Of note, the number of countries participating in the projects has grown, with India recently making contributions to two of the projects. Overall, concrete progress has been achieved in the various projects with the completion of the demonstration trial in the AIS Class B project and conduct of training visits under the HNS project, among others.
MPA Chief Executive Mr Lam Yi Young said that “the co-operation between Straits users and the three littoral States since the establishment of the Co-operative Mechanism has been very encouraging. Going forward, we can expect greater collaboration among Straits stakeholders in ensuring safety and the protection of the marine environment in these important straits used for international navigation.”
IMO Director of Maritime Safety Division Mr Koji Sekimizu similarly added that “the fact that the three littoral States have acted in such a timely manner and continue to display a strong determination to move matters forward, thereby building on the momentum established by the IMO-sponsored meetings, to be extremely positive and encouraging.”
The Co-operative Mechanism
Singapore is hosting the 2nd Co-operation Forum from 14 to 15 October 2009. The Co-operation Forum is part of the Co-operative Mechanism which is a key platform for the three littoral States and the international maritime community to collaborate on issues relating to the Straits. The Co-operative Mechanism has been making good progress through its three pillars: the Co-operation Forum; the Straits projects; and the Aids to Navigation Fund.
At the 2nd Co-operation Forum, new mechanisms for collaboration will also be established to broaden the scope of participation. In particular, there will be two new panel discussions on “Safety of Navigation” and “Environment Protection”. Co-chaired by the littoral States and the Roundtable of international shipping associations, the panel discussions will promote the active participation of the Industry and its engagement with the littoral and user States.
Beyond the Co-operation Forum and Straits projects, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and organisations such as the Nippon Foundation, Malacca Strait Council, and the Middle East Navigation Aids Service have made significant contributions to the Aids to Navigation Fund. The IMO Straits of Malacca and Singapore Trust Fund complements the Aids to Navigation Fund.
Annex A: Factsheet on the Co-operative Mechanism
About the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) was established on 2 February 1996, with the mission to develop Singapore as a premier global hub port and international maritime centre (IMC), and to advance and safeguard Singapore’s strategic maritime interests. MPA is the driving force behind Singapore's port and maritime development, taking on the roles of Port Authority, Port Regulator, Port Planner, IMC Champion, and National Maritime Representative. MPA partners the industry and other agencies to enhance safety, security and environmental protection in our port waters, facilitate port operations and growth, grow the cluster of maritime ancillary services, and promote maritime R&D and manpower development.
For media clarification, please contact:
Lena Han (Ms)
Manager
Corporate Communications
Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
DID: (65) 6375-1676
HP : (65) 9689-0815
Fax: (65) 6276-8927
Email: lena@mpa.gov.sg
Annex A
FACT SHEET ON THE CO-OPERATIVE MECHANISM
The Co-operative Mechanism broke new ground when it was officially launched during the Singapore-IMO Meeting in 2007. It was the first time that co-operation under Article 43 of UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) had been realised through such a concrete and detailed framework. This was a significant milestone in the implementation of UNCLOS, one of the most important bodies of international law.
Article 43 of UNCLOS
Article 43 provides for co-operation between coastal States bordering a strait used for international navigation such as the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and users in maintaining the navigational safety and environmental protection of the straits. The actual text is as follows:
“User States and States bordering a strait should by agreement co-operate: in the establishment and maintenance in a strait of necessary navigational and safety aids or other improvements in aid of international navigation; and for the prevention, reduction and control of pollution from ships.”
The Co-operative Mechanism is based on several key principles. It re-affirms that the primary responsibility over the safety of navigation and environmental protection in the Straits lies with the littoral States. It emphasises that any measure undertaken in the Straits should be in accordance with international law. In this regard, it acknowledges the interest of userStates and relevant international agencies and recognises that all users and stakeholders have a role to play in maintaining and enhancing navigational safety and marine environmental protection in the Straits. The Co-operative Mechanism is inclusive in nature, and operates on a basis of voluntary contribution and consensus.
The Co-operative Mechanism consists of three components, namely, (i) a Co-operation Forum that will serve as a platform for dialogue between the littoral States and the international maritime community; (ii) a Project Co-ordination Committee to co-ordinate the implementation of Straits projects that involve contributions from the international maritime community; and (iii) an Aids to Navigation Fund to receive direct financial contributions from the international maritime community to maintain marine navigational aids in the Straits. The components of the Co-operative Mechanism are inter-connected and complementary.
The Co-operative Mechanism has been structured to be flexible so as to provide a range of modalities or menu of options to users and stakeholders through which they can work with the littoral States. Contributions and participation can be in-kind, such as the provision of technical expertise and consultancy, or financial in the form of direct monetary contributions. This is intended to accommodate the varied interests and circumstances of the contributing parties.
Co-operation Forum (CF)
The Co-operation Forum is the main avenue for user States, the shipping industry and other stakeholders to meet and cooperate with the littoral States of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. It serves to promote dialogue and exchange of views on issues of common interests in the Straits. It also facilitates concrete and practical co-operation between the littoral States, and user States, shipping industry and other stakeholders in the maintenance of safety of navigation and environmental protection in the Straits.
Apart from the three littoral States, user States such as China, Germany, India, Japan, Norway, and the US will also be delivering presentations at the 2nd Co-operation Forum. In addition, for the first time, representatives from Roundtable of International Shipping Associations and representatives from the shipping industry will also participate in two panel discussions on Safety of Navigation and Environmental Protection at this Forum.
Project Co-ordination Committee (PCC)
Annex A
FACT SHEET ON THE CO-OPERATIVE MECHANISM
The Co-operative Mechanism broke new ground when it was officially launched during the Singapore-IMO Meeting in 2007. It was the first time that co-operation under Article 43 of UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) had been realised through such a concrete and detailed framework. This was a significant milestone in the implementation of UNCLOS, one of the most important bodies of international law.
Article 43 of UNCLOS
Article 43 provides for co-operation between coastal States bordering a strait used for international navigation such as the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and users in maintaining the navigational safety and environmental protection of the straits. The actual text is as follows:
“User States and States bordering a strait should by agreement co-operate: in the establishment and maintenance in a strait of necessary navigational and safety aids or other improvements in aid of international navigation; and for the prevention, reduction and control of pollution from ships.”
The Co-operative Mechanism is based on several key principles. It re-affirms that the primary responsibility over the safety of navigation and environmental protection in the Straits lies with the littoral States. It emphasises that any measure undertaken in the Straits should be in accordance with international law. In this regard, it acknowledges the interest of userStates and relevant international agencies and recognises that all users and stakeholders have a role to play in maintaining and enhancing navigational safety and marine environmental protection in the Straits. The Co-operative Mechanism is inclusive in nature, and operates on a basis of voluntary contribution and consensus.
The Co-operative Mechanism consists of three components, namely, (i) a Co-operation Forum that will serve as a platform for dialogue between the littoral States and the international maritime community; (ii) a Project Co-ordination Committee to co-ordinate the implementation of Straits projects that involve contributions from the international maritime community; and (iii) an Aids to Navigation Fund to receive direct financial contributions from the international maritime community to maintain marine navigational aids in the Straits. The components of the Co-operative Mechanism are inter-connected and complementary.
The Co-operative Mechanism has been structured to be flexible so as to provide a range of modalities or menu of options to users and stakeholders through which they can work with the littoral States. Contributions and participation can be in-kind, such as the provision of technical expertise and consultancy, or financial in the form of direct monetary contributions. This is intended to accommodate the varied interests and circumstances of the contributing parties.
Co-operation Forum (CF)
The Co-operation Forum is the main avenue for user States, the shipping industry and other stakeholders to meet and cooperate with the littoral States of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. It serves to promote dialogue and exchange of views on issues of common interests in the Straits. It also facilitates concrete and practical co-operation between the littoral States, and user States, shipping industry and other stakeholders in the maintenance of safety of navigation and environmental protection in the Straits.
Apart from the three littoral States, user States such as China, Germany, India, Japan, Norway, and the US will also be delivering presentations at the 2nd Co-operation Forum. In addition, for the first time, representatives from Roundtable of International Shipping Associations and representatives from the shipping industry will also participate in two panel discussions on Safety of Navigation and Environmental Protection at this Forum.
Project Co-ordination Committee (PCC)
The Project Co-ordination Committee is the body that implements the various projects under the Co-operative Mechanism to promote safety of navigation and environmental protection. It is a concrete demonstration of co-operation and burden sharing between the littoral States and user States, the shipping industry and other stakeholders. Through the Project Co-ordination Committee, user States, the shipping industry and other stakeholders can contribute either by financing a project that has been identified and agreed upon, or a component therein, or by providing in-kind resources such as technical assistance and equipment to specific aspects of a project.
Six projects were presented at the Kuala Lumpur Meeting in 2006. The current status of these six projects and involvement of the various contributor user States and stakeholders are outlined below.
Project | Participants | Updates |
Removal of Wrecks in the Straits to enhance navigational safety (led byMalaysia) | India | India has committed to providing training for the three littoral States at the NavalHydrographicSchool in Goa. The course is scheduled to be conducted in Nov 2009. |
Co-operation/ capacity building to enhance preparedness and response capabilities against Hazardous and Noxious Substances incidents to enhance marine environment protection (led by Malaysia) | Australia, US,China | A joint site assessment survey was conducted by the USand China with the littoral states in 2007 and the project team has agreed that the first three components of the project, namely the development of a HNS databank, a regional Standard Operating Procedure for response to HNS spills, and capacity building will be the next priority areas. The US Coast Guard had provided HNS preparedness/response training to the littoral States in theUS (San Francisco and Detroit) from 20-25 October 2008. Australia has offered to contribute its technical expertise to developing the HNS Databank. China has also indicated that it will conduct a HNS “Train-the-Trainers” programme for the littoral States by 2010. |
Demonstration trial of Automatic Identification System Class-B transponders on small ships to enhance navigational safety (led by Singapore) | Australia, Japan,ROK | Australia and Singapore jointly prepared the draft document for the project design and implementation plan, which has been endorsed by the three littoral states at the PCC. Japan has contributed 10 transponders for the trial and provided technical guidance for the installation of the transponders on vessels for the trial. Singapore has also acquired 20 additional transponders, through the IMO Straits Trust Fund, for the trial and worked with Indonesia and Malaysia on the installation. The trial commenced on1st June 2009. |
Establish Wind, tide, current measurement system to enhance navigational safety (led by Singapore) | China, India, | China has completed a desktop assessment study which has been adopted by the three littoral States. A site assessment survey for the project was jointly conducted byChina and India in July 2009. India has committed to providing funding for the project in 3 stages. The Stage 1 contribution of US $774,000 was disbursed in March 2009. |
Replacement and Maintenance of Navigation Aids to ensure safe navigation (led by Indonesia) | Japan, ROK | Malaysia carried out the survey of its navigation aids from 16 Jun 08 - 23 Jul 08, followed by the Indonesians. The Indonesians have completed the preliminary stage of their survey. Malaysia and Indonesia presented the results of the completed sections at the 2nd ANF Committee Meeting on 30-31 October 2008 in Kuching, Sarawak. The Nippon Foundation has contributed US$1.351 million towards the ANF for the site survey for this project. The Japanese Government has also committed US$200,000 towards the design of one or two navigation aids for this project. |
Replacement of Navigation Aids damaged by the Tsunami off the Sumatran coast (led by Indonesia) | China | China has undertaken this project in full, i.e. to replace all 7 navigation aids, and will undertake the project on a step by step approach. |
Aids to Navigation Fund
The Aids to Navigation Fund receives contributions from stakeholders of the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, and channels them towards the maintenance and replacement of aids to navigation in the Straits, which are vital for safe navigation and environmental protection in the Straits. Contributors to the Fund include Japan, the United Arab Emirates, the Nippon Foundation, the Middle East Navigation Aids Service and the Malacca Strait Council. Pledges to contribute to the Fund have also been made by the Republic of Korea and the Japanese Shipowners Association. To date, the total amount of contributions/pledges to the Fund total US$7.326 million.
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