MTM Students Embark on Insightful Visit to Jurong Port
On 14 October 2024, students from the MSc Maritime Technology and Management (MTM) programme had the opportunity to visit Jurong Port, one of Singapore's key multi-purpose ports. The visit was organised to offer students a deeper understanding of port operations and to gain insights into the technological advancements shaping the future of the maritime industry.
The visit commenced with a warm introduction by Mr Norman, Head of Sustainability and Strategy Management, who delivered a series of detailed presentations covering various aspects of Jurong Port’s operations and future-focused strategies. His presentation began with an overview of the port's strategic location and infrastructure, emphasising the importance of Jurong Port in enhancing supply chain efficiency both locally and globally. As a multi-purpose port, Jurong Port serves as a crucial hub for handling various types of cargo, and its services play a vital role in contributing to the world’s trade.
A highlight of the presentation was Jurong Port’s ongoing efforts towards automation and digitalisation in port operations. These initiatives, Mr Norman explained, are key to improving the efficiency and reliability of services, ensuring the port remains competitive in a rapidly evolving maritime industry. He also introduced the students to several green initiatives and eco-friendly technologies that the port has implemented to reduce its carbon footprint, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Mr Norman concluded his presentation by discussing emerging technologies and the future trends in global trade that are expected to influence port operations. This gave students valuable insights into the importance of innovation in ensuring long-term resilience and adaptability in the maritime sector.
In addition to the technical and strategic aspects, students were also informed about internship and career opportunities available at Jurong Port. Mr Willis, Head of HR Business Partner, highlighted the port's commitment to nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals and shared valuable advice on how students can take advantage of these opportunities.
One of the students, Jiang Haokun, shared his thoughts on the visit:
Today we visited Jurong Port, a comprehensive multi-functional port with services such as mariner port, storage and transportation of bulk cargo, loading and delivery of materials such as coal and sand, and fuel processing and loading. In the introduction meeting, Mr Norman introduced us to the port layout, scope of work, digitalisation and low-carbon development direction of Jurong Port, which leads the industry as a world-leading comprehensive port. Mr Willis from the Human Resources Office introduced us to internship opportunities, and CDO Mr Desmond Ong encouraged us to contribute to the maritime industry in the future. Afterwards, we took a sightseeing bus to have a field visit of the entire Jurong Port, which was a rich and interesting trip!
The presentation concluded with closing remarks from Mr Desmond Ong, Chief Digital Officer of Jurong Port, who encouraged the students to embrace opportunities within the maritime industry and to contribute positively to its future development. He emphasised the importance of innovation and sustainability in shaping the next generation of maritime professionals.
Following the presentations, the students were split into two groups. One group embarked on a guided port tour, which provided an up-close view of Jurong Port's extensive infrastructure and operations, while the second group visited the office and enjoyed lunch at the canteen. Afterward, the groups switched activities, ensuring that all participants had the chance to fully experience both aspects of the visit.
The students were then ferried back to Lakeside MRT station, brimming with new knowledge and inspired by the possibilities that lie ahead in the maritime sector.
Jurong Port’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and talent development left a lasting impression on the MTM students, reaffirming the vital role that ports play in global trade and the exciting future awaiting those entering the maritime industry.
