I CONGRATULATE the Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA) on its 50th anniversary.

Over the years, Singapore has developed into a global hub port and a leading International Maritime Centre. SMA has played an important role in our success by providing quality maritime education and training over the last 50 years. Today, The SMA counts among its alumni many eminent personalities in Singapore's maritime sector. The numerous awards that the SMA has received, including five consecutive Lloyd's List Maritime Asia Awards, are also testament to the rigour, quality and relevance of the SMA's programmes.

For Singapore to retain its position as one of the world's leading maritime centres, we must continue to develop our human capital and attract talent to the maritime industry. The SMA will, therefore, have to find innovative and effective ways to reach out to young Singaporeans to consider a maritime career and to enrol in its programmes.

The SMA's close partnership with the industry ensures that its graduates are equipped with the skills needed by the industry to meet real-world challenges. Its syllabus incorporates latest technologies and trends so that its graduates are ready for the future. As a valued member of the MaritimeONE programme, the SMA works with government and industry to promote maritime careers.

On this occasion, I commend the SMA for its valuable contributions over the past 50 years. I wish the SMA continued success in the years to come, as we grow in our partnership to develop Singapore's capabilities as an International Maritime Centre.

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