The IFC, Singapore Shipping Association and the Asian Shipowners' Association successfully conducted the 44th Shared Awareness Meeting (SAM) for the first time and had more than 200 participants joining us both physically and virtually, marking the highest physical participation ever.
We changed the way SAM was conducted to encourage conversation among the physical participants and the sharing of different viewpoints among different maritime stakeholders.
The 11th RMPP participants, particularly those from navies, coastguards, and maritime agencies, also had the opportunity to listen to MARSEC issues from the shipping industry for the first time.
We would like to express our thanks to all invited speakers. From the maritime and enforcement agencies, INSP Kweon Dong Hee, Korea Coast Guard International Liaison Officer (ILO) and CDR Stephan Litzler, France and European Union ILO briefed on MARSEC updates in IFC's Area of Interest and Gulf of Guinea respectively, while CDR Daniel Randall, US ILO and CAPT Lee Stuart, Operations Director of IMSC covered IMSC's area of responsibilities.
From the maritime industry, Capt David Bancroft, CSO International Fleet and Senior Security Advisor from Chevron spoke on his company's MARSEC pillars and Mr Jody Sheilds, Manager Commercial APAC from SMIT Salvage presented on their salvage operations for Ever Given.
Thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the event's success, in particular all the speakers who shared their insights on the latest maritime security (MARSEC) developments and best industry practices.
"This SAM also holds great significance as it is the first time that we are co-organising with both the Asian Shipowners' Association and the Singapore Shipping Association. Marking the largest attendance till date." LTC Daniel Ng, Deputy Hd IFC/Hd Shipping Engagement, IFC.
"Our seamen, be it naval or merchant, play a vital role in upholding maritime security and ensuring that international waters are kept safe for all vessels. They are the first people to respond to any incidents that occur in the region." Mr Michael Phoon, Executive Director, Singapore Shipping Association.