Strengthening Regional Maritime Security and Cooperation at the 46th Shared Awareness Meeting
Over 210 representatives from navies, coastguards, and the regional shipping community participated in the 48th Shared Awareness Meeting (SAM). The meeting was jointly organised by the IFC, the Asian Shipowners' Association (ASA), and the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA).
The meeting featured MARSEC briefings on various areas of concern. As part of the IFC's Area of Interest (AOI) brief, Japan International Liaison Officer CDR Wada Yohsuke presented the IFC's half yearly observations on the MARSEC situation in the region. Additionally, CDR Thomas Scalabre (MICA Center) and LCDR Dougle Bell (UKMTO) shared updates on the Gulf of Guinea and the Gulf of Aden/Red Sea, respectively.
Industry perspectives were also well represented. Mr. Sebastian Pang (MOL Asia Oceania) shared on the safety and security risks associated with alternative fuels, while Mr. Lionel Seah (Windward) presented on the role of Al and data analytics in detecting MARSEC anomalies.
A key highlight of the 48th SAM was the official appointment of Mr. Loh Chun How, Executive Director of SSA, as the IFC's Shipping Industry Advisor, in this role, he will serve as a vital two-way link between the IFC and the shipping community, sharing key industry insights and supporting mutually beneficial outcomes. The IFC and SSA have long enjoyed a strong partnership, and this appointment marks another important step forward in this collaboration. Welcome aboard!
We would also like to extend our thanks to Malaysia international Liaison Officer, LCDR Muhammad Hazwan Bin Bahari, for serving as Master of Ceremony for the 48th SAM.
We hope all participants found the 48th SAM insightful and productive-and we look forward to welcoming you at the next edition!