The Nautical Institute (Singapore) Conference 2026, held on August 20 at the Furama City Centre, focused on critical topics such as the evaluation of ships’ seaworthiness, the long-term career prospects for seafarers, and the necessity of incorporating seafarer welfare into maritime decision-making. This event coincided with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore’s Safety@Sea Week and attracted over 250 maritime professionals from diverse sectors, including shipping, legal, insurance, training, and maritime operations. The overarching theme of the conference was “Seaworthiness and Seafarers in a Changing World.”
Keynote speakers included prominent maritime leaders with extensive experience across both operational and strategic fields. Notable figures were Mr. Nick Potter, President and CEO of AET, and Ms. Sakura Kuma, Executive Officer of Mitsui OSK Lines and Managing Director of MOL (Asia Oceania). Their insights stimulated discussions on pressing industry issues, highlighting the evolving landscape of maritime practices.
Ms. Kuma notably shared an inspiring account involving the crew of MOL’s LNG carrier, LNG Saturn, who participated in a dramatic rescue of fellow seafarers from a distressed vessel. This account underscored the crucial qualities of seafarers, such as sound judgment, teamwork, and the willingness to take decisive action in life-threatening situations. Conference organizers emphasized this story as a poignant reminder of the inherent responsibilities that come with maritime work.
