(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.”
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
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.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
IBIA presses ahead with plans for industry qualification
(http://www.august.energy.biz/, October 08, Thursday) --- IBIA press release...
(Merlin Communications) -- The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has been consulting with its members to help identify the best way to institute a professional bunker industry qualification, plans for which were first unveiled last year.
At the forthcoming IBIA Annual Convention, to be held in Singapore from October 12 to 16, IBIA chairman Chris Fisher will tell delegates, “IBIA is not looking to move further into the training sector, but many of our members have shown an interest in an IBIA qualification. The concept under consideration envisages IBIA preparing examination material for up to three levels – Basic, Advanced and Higher.
“IBIA would work with existing training establishments to ensure that the proper examination material subjects were included, to the level required, and would then recommend appropriate training programmes for students wishing to take the examinations. And IBIA would select an existing, professional third party to provide facilities on a global basis for students to sit the examinations under controlled conditions
“Clearly, IBIA cannot become involved in the cost of attending third-party training events, but our aim is to keep the cost of the examination and qualification process as low as possible by providing examination facilities in as many locations around the world as possible. This would keep student travel costs down. The examination fee should be modest; sufficient to cover venue costs, invigilation and certification. Where possible we would endeavour to minimise costs by registering a number of students to sit the examination at the same time.”
Last year IBIA carried out industry research on the need for qualifications in the bunker industry, albeit on a relatively small population of its members. Recently it obtained additional feedback from members on a number of issues, including whether they believe that a professional bunkering qualification would help raise industry standards, and whether they would support those wishing to gain such a qualification. The response has been very positive and the survey findings will be presented at the IBIA convention in Singapore next week.
Chris Fisher says, “Education is vital. Specifically, I believe that, if the buyer is well-trained and qualified, a large proportion of problems could be avoided. Too many owners are leaving their purchase functions to individual operators who never have time to attend courses or conferences. Traders, brokers and suppliers do make up most of the delegates on training courses, but more education is needed. Purchasers and suppliers need to be aware of the benefits that well-informed staff can give to their company. Qualifications would be a great way to enhance both IBIA and the bunkering industry and would allow people in the industry to develop and gain personal satisfaction.”
At the IBIA Convention, subjects under discussion will include quality determination, environmental and financial challenges, and positioning for recovery in Asia.
Bunker Cafe on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=88897295872
August Energy on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=56345560853
(Merlin Communications) -- The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has been consulting with its members to help identify the best way to institute a professional bunker industry qualification, plans for which were first unveiled last year.
At the forthcoming IBIA Annual Convention, to be held in Singapore from October 12 to 16, IBIA chairman Chris Fisher will tell delegates, “IBIA is not looking to move further into the training sector, but many of our members have shown an interest in an IBIA qualification. The concept under consideration envisages IBIA preparing examination material for up to three levels – Basic, Advanced and Higher.
“IBIA would work with existing training establishments to ensure that the proper examination material subjects were included, to the level required, and would then recommend appropriate training programmes for students wishing to take the examinations. And IBIA would select an existing, professional third party to provide facilities on a global basis for students to sit the examinations under controlled conditions
“Clearly, IBIA cannot become involved in the cost of attending third-party training events, but our aim is to keep the cost of the examination and qualification process as low as possible by providing examination facilities in as many locations around the world as possible. This would keep student travel costs down. The examination fee should be modest; sufficient to cover venue costs, invigilation and certification. Where possible we would endeavour to minimise costs by registering a number of students to sit the examination at the same time.”
Last year IBIA carried out industry research on the need for qualifications in the bunker industry, albeit on a relatively small population of its members. Recently it obtained additional feedback from members on a number of issues, including whether they believe that a professional bunkering qualification would help raise industry standards, and whether they would support those wishing to gain such a qualification. The response has been very positive and the survey findings will be presented at the IBIA convention in Singapore next week.
Chris Fisher says, “Education is vital. Specifically, I believe that, if the buyer is well-trained and qualified, a large proportion of problems could be avoided. Too many owners are leaving their purchase functions to individual operators who never have time to attend courses or conferences. Traders, brokers and suppliers do make up most of the delegates on training courses, but more education is needed. Purchasers and suppliers need to be aware of the benefits that well-informed staff can give to their company. Qualifications would be a great way to enhance both IBIA and the bunkering industry and would allow people in the industry to develop and gain personal satisfaction.”
At the IBIA Convention, subjects under discussion will include quality determination, environmental and financial challenges, and positioning for recovery in Asia.
Bunker Cafe on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=88897295872
August Energy on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=56345560853
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)