The bill was introduced in parliament for first reading yesterday. File Image / Pixabay

Singapore has introduced a bill that would give the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) more powers over port operations, cybersecurity and new technologies.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Amendment Bill was introduced for First Reading in Parliament, MPA said in a press release on Tuesday.

The bill will update the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Act 1996, which was introduced 30 years ago, to reflect changes in the maritime sector.

These include the growing use of digital systems, remote operations and autonomous vessels.

The proposed changes would give MPA a broader framework to license maritime services and allow it to issue directions on safety, efficiency, reliability, environmental performance and service quality.

MPA would also have greater powers to deal with abandoned vessels, wrecks and other objects that could disrupt navigation or port operations.

A new cybersecurity framework would allow MPA to designate Important Information Infrastructure and set requirements for protecting critical maritime systems.

The bill also covers autonomous surface vessels, drones and artificial intelligence, giving MPA a legal basis to regulate their use.

MPA’s powers to obtain information, carry out inspections and investigate possible breaches would also be strengthened.

Parliament is expected to debate the bill at its Second Reading in November.

“The Bill seeks to amend the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Act 1996 (“MPA Act”) to address these developments, strengthen safeguards against emerging risks, and enable MPA to intervene effectively to maintain the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Port of Singapore,” MPA said.