The container ship MV JURONG BEBARU managed by Neptune Shipmanagment Services (Pte) Ltd (NSSPL) has become the first ship in Singapore to be certified in compliance with the rigorous International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code established by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) – ten months ahead of the deadline.

The code comes into effect on 1 July 2004 and requirements include an approved Shipboard Security Plan and extensive security training of a shore-based Company Security Officer and a ship-based Ship Security Officer.

Lloyds’s Register certified the vessel and Neptune Orient Lines’ (NOL) subsidiary NSSPL, which will be required by the Singapore Flag Administration, the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to meet IMO regulations as of 1 July next year.

Said MPA Chief Executive, RADM Lui Tuck Yew: “MPA would like to recognise the efforts of Neptune Orient Lines (NOL) to commence the process of ensuring its ships comply with the ISPS code. I would like to urge all shipowners and companies to follow NOL’s example to take early steps to prepare for compliance. Early compliance will prevent any possible bottle-necks as we approach the 1 Jul 04 deadline.”

NSSPL General Manager, Lim Tau Kok, today received a Certificate of Compliance from Jerry Goodwin, Lloyds Register Asia’s, Area Manager for SE Asia, recognising NSSPL’s achievement.

Lim Tau Kok, said: "We always try to stay abreast of regulatory developments, and this certification recognises NSSPL's proactive commitment to meeting the highest standards for ISPS compliance and certification. We selected Lloyd's Register for ISSC certification due to its international reputation for impartial auditing and effective training. We are dedicated to ensuring that NSSPL can demonstrate that it is committed to operating at the very highest international maritime security standards."

Jerry Goodwin said: "I congratulate NSSPL for having chosen to certify the JURONG BEBARU well ahead of the deadline. I know they will continue to be pioneers in the way they demonstrate their commitment to the objectives of the ISPS code, and will apply the same high standards to the remainder of their substantial fleet of ships under the Singapore Flag.”