Samsung Heavy Industries has partnered with Evergreen to develop virtual reality training for seafarers on eco-friendly ships. Installed at the Evergreen Seafarer Training Center, these systems prepare crews for operating methanol dual-fuel vessels. This initiative supports fleet decarbonization, enhancing safety and efficiency in line with evolving environmental regulations.
The Sri Lankan Cabinet has approved the establishment of Colombo Eastern Container Terminal (Private) Limited to manage the Eastern Container Terminal at Colombo Port. This initiative aims to enhance economic returns and operational efficiency while ensuring competitiveness against private operators, all while remaining under the Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s ownership.
The Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued the US yacht ‘Sea Angel’ and its two crew members stranded in rough waters near Indira Point. The distress alert, received on July 10, prompted a swift response from the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, leading to a successful towing operation by the ICGS Rajveer.
Dr. Rosalie Balkin has been awarded the 2024 International Maritime Prize by the IMO Council for her outstanding contributions to international maritime law over her 50-year career. As Secretary-General of the Comité Maritime International, she is the first woman to hold this position in its 128-year history, reflecting her remarkable achievements.
The Israeli Air Force has released footage of an airstrike on the Galaxy Leader, a ship hijacked by Houthi forces. The vessel, repurposed for surveillance, was targeted at Ras Isa port. In retaliation, Houthi forces launched missiles, escalating maritime security concerns amid ongoing regional conflicts and tensions.
The Recaap Information Sharing Center recently addressed the alarming surge in armed robberies in the Malacca and Singapore Strait, reporting 80 incidents from January to June 2025. Participants emphasized the urgency of timely reporting and discussed security measures, including CCTV and increased nighttime personnel, highlighting the critical need for cooperation among authorities.
The Yemeni Armed Forces released footage of the Houthi attack on the MV Eternity C on July 7, 2025. Five Filipino crew members and an Indian guard were rescued, but the fate of 22 others remains uncertain. The U.S. condemned the attack, labeling it terrorism, while investigations into safety violations are ongoing.
Recent maritime accidents around Bali have alarmed tourism operators, prompting calls for improved vessel safety and port supervision. Notable incidents include a tourist boat capsizing and a ferry sinking, raising concerns about Bali’s reputation. Authorities are urged to enforce stricter regulations and enhance maritime infrastructure to ensure safe travel.
Yemen’s Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for sinking the Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Eternity C earlier this week, following a similar attack on the Magic Seas. This marks a troubling escalation in assaults on Red Sea shipping, raising significant security concerns in the region.
Major shipping organizations, including the International Chamber of Shipping and BIMCO, have condemned recent attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, which resulted in seafarer fatalities. The joint statement emphasized a “callous disregard for the lives of innocent civilian seafarers” following the sinking of two ships this week.
Yemen has announced the establishment of a humanitarian operations center aimed at collaborating with international shipping companies to minimize unintended damage in regional waters. This initiative reflects Yemen’s commitment to maritime security and responsible engagement in the area. President Al-Mashat emphasized the importance of adhering to guidelines set by the armed forces.
Seventeen crew members remain missing after the MV Eternity C sank in the Red Sea. The Department of Migrant Workers confirmed that two fatalities were previously reported, but the exact death toll is unclear. Rescue operations continue, with five survivors safe and providing critical information about the incident.
Greece has urged the International Maritime Organization to unite against rising tensions in the Red Sea, following attacks on Greek-owned vessels, Magic Seas and Eternity C. The Greek Ministry of Maritime Affairs highlighted the need for restoring order in line with international maritime laws and issued safety guidelines for shipowners.
The UN Security Council convened to address Yemen’s escalating conflict and humanitarian crisis, highlighting regional instability due to Houthi attacks on shipping. UN envoy Hans Grundberg warned of a “deeply volatile” situation while noting fragile hopes for peace after a recent Iran-Israel ceasefire. Urgent calls for protecting civilians and stabilizing the region were emphasized.
The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) reports a 50% rise in piracy and armed robberies against ships in the first half of 2025, with 90 incidents recorded, particularly alarming in the Singapore Strait. This vital shipping route saw a surge from 15 incidents last year, raising serious safety concerns for crew members.
