Singapore launches digital platform for training in safe handling of alternative marine fuels and new technologies

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has announced the Maritime Energy Training Facility (METF) Digital Platform, an initiative to help the global maritime workforce access training in the safe handling of alternative marine fuels and new technologies. The prototype platform was showcased at the ‘Accelerating Digitalisation and Decarbonisation Conference” at Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) and will be ready by the second half of 2025.  

The METF was first introduced at SMW 2024 as part of Singapore’s efforts to advance maritime decarbonisation and workforce development. Since then, MPA has engaged training providers, shipping companies, and maritime associations to align training standards with industry needs. These efforts have led to the development of the METF Digital Platform, a training management system that simplifies access to training, streamlines certification issuance, and ensures alignment with evolving international standards. 

The METF Digital Platform offers maritime companies, seafarers and maritime professionals a systematic and easy way to find relevant courses, register and pay for them. Training progress and certifications received can also be tracked through the platform, helping both companies and individuals monitor compliance with the relevant industry and regulatory standards. By streamlining administrative processes such as training grant eligibility and certification management, the platform reduces the administrative burden on maritime companies and makes training easily accessible for seafarers and maritime professionals.

The platform is currently offered to Singapore-based maritime companies and/or Singapore-registered ships. This would be extended to more companies and stakeholders, including those based overseas, in the next phase.

The prototype is undergoing testing and validation with a group of industry pilot users.