Singapore's MPA, PSA sign an agreement to enhance port technology

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and PSA Corporation have on Wednesday ink an agreement to collaborate on conducting researching and test-bedding new technologies for future container terminals. A memorandum of understanding was signed by both parties on a five-year Port Technology Research and Development Programme. The programme will focus on three broad areas, namely automated container port systems, advanced container port optimisation techniques and technologies, and green port technologies. The programme will see MPA, PSA, equipment and technology providers, local institutes of higher learning and other companies coming together to develop advanced port technologies for Singapore's container terminals. MPA will fund the programme with up to S$10m ($7.9m) over five years from the Maritime Innovation and Technology Fund (MINT Fund). PSA, together with local institutes of higher learning and other industry partners will provide co-funding and in-kind resources of up to S$10m over the same period. A key project that would be undertaken by PSA is the development of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) for future container terminals to reduce manpower and improve port productivity. PSA will also seek and adapt new technologies to develop more intelligent systems that will streamline port planning processes and operations. These seek to further raise the value-add of employees and overall productivity. “For the world's busiest transhipment hub, technology is vital in ensuring that its terminal customers are served seamlessly, efficiently and effectively round the clock,” said Lam Yi Young, chief executive of MPA.