Digitalising the Maritime Sector: Insights from Captain Tan Kim Hock

Singapore is investing over $100 million to digitalise its maritime sector, starting with a new platform called OCEANS-X. But can this new maritime “Singpass” for shipping improve transparency and tackle zombie fleets?

In an interview on CNA938, host Daniel Martin spoke with Captain Tan Kim Hock from the NTU School of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) to unpack the opportunities and challenges surrounding the maritime sector.

Highlighting the complexities of implementing platforms such as OCEANS-X, Captain Tan shared that a key issue lies in integrating massive datasets and sources. “The biggest challenge is the massive data integration because the data that comes from global shipping networks is very extensive and there is a complex network of sources,” he explained.

Digital platforms like these could play a strategic role in reinforcing Singapore’s position as a leading global maritime hub. “By doing so, we demonstrate our strengths and improve the status of Singapore as a trusted maritime hub. This also gives us a competitive advantage,” he said.    

Tune into the episode on CNA938 Rewind here.