Singapore and the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) have launched the Joint IHO-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory — becoming the first hydrographic innovation and technology laboratory globally. 

The parties noted that the laboratory seeks to optimise the resources of IHO Member States to harness and develop emerging technologies in the hydrographic domain that support safe maritime navigation and the protection of the marine environment. 

"In accelerating innovation in the field of hydrography, the Laboratory aims to conduct research and testing of projects proposed by IHO Member States, IHO organs and other stakeholders; grow knowledge and foster collaboration on global standard-setting for the development and application of technologies enhancing safety at sea; and promote a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment to drive innovative solutions and develop pioneering technologies through active partnerships," the statement said.

It added that for a start, the Joint IHO-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory will embark on the following two pilot projects which is to investigate the automated conversion of the IHO S-57 Electronic Navigation Chart (ENC) to the IHO S-101 ENC to support the development of the Dual-Fuel Electronic Chart Display and Information System. 

It will also develop a "digital infrastructure" to improve information exchange between harbours and hydrographic office which will inform the IHO S-131 Marine Harbour Infrastructure product specifications.

 
The said facility will be overseen by a Governing Board chaired by Abri Kampfer,  the IHO Director in charge of the IHO Work Programme II. Its General Manager, Parry Oei, Adviser (Hydrography) of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), leads the day-to-day operations. 

"The Joint IHO-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory will provide a dedicated space to test and evaluate new ideas to enable their smooth transfer into practice. This is a key element which has been missing and will help progress in digital hydrography. The laboratory is designed to become the testing ground for the future of hydrography," said IHO Secretary General, Mathias Jonas.

For his part, Chee Hong Tat, Singapore senior minister of state, Ministry of Transport noted support for the development of hydrographic technology.

"Singapore supports international efforts to develop hydrographic technologies that enhance safety of navigation and protection of the marine environment," Chee Hong Tat said.

"The Joint IHO-Singapore Innovation and Technology Laboratory is an important endeavour to harness the collective resources and expertise of IHO Member States. Singapore is honoured to be the host country of the Laboratory," he added.