Offshore staff

SINGAPORE -- Singapore's marine and maritime industry is set to grow with the expansion of its offshore, marine, and maritime interests, says Teo Siong Seng, chairman of the Singapore Maritime Foundation.

Teo pointed out that the industry accounted for about 7% of Singapore's Gross Domestic Product in 2005 and would continue to increase because of Singapore's strategic location and its position as the world leader in rig design and construction.

"With Asia's increased dominance in world shipping and Singapore's strategic location at the crossroad of global trade, we are well placed to grow further as one of the world's important maritime hubs," Teo says.

"The drivers of growth in this industry are the talented and spirited locals who have the passion and determination to succeed," Teo says.

In a move to enlarge this talent pool, the industry has commissioned a television drama serial. Keppel Offshore & Marine Ltd. initiated the 21-episode Mandarin serial drama, "The Peak." Primary sponsors for the drama include the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore, Singapore Maritime Foundation, and the Association of Singapore Marine Industries. The other sponsors are equipment vendors Natoil Varco and Wartsila, class society America Bureau of Shipping, insurer NHM, and the Workforce Development Agency.

The drama premieres Jan. 8, 2007, at 9 p.m. on a Singapore television channel.

12/28/2006