Assalamu'alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh, Salam Sejahtera and a very Good Morning,
1. To our friends who have come from abroad, a warm welcome to Brunei Darussalam. It is an honour to be here with you again, and on behalf of the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, it gives me great pleasure to open the 47th ASEAN Maritime Transport Working Group Meeting.
2. Maritime transport has been and will continue to be a key catalyst responsible for ASEAN’s economic growth. Our Leaders have recognized the importance of maritime transport and continue to emphasise the need to broaden our maritime cooperation and enhance our maritime linkages and connectivity. As we know, the maritime sector is crucial for our region, facilitating the flow of goods, people, and services across our waters. It is a cornerstone of ASEAN’s economic connectivity and growth.
3. The MTWG is the key ASEAN forum looking at maritime issues concerning our region and has achieved much over the years. Today, I would like to highlight the significant strides we are making in maritime transport within ASEAN.
4. At the 57th ASEAN Senior Transport Officials Meeting, we reaffirmed our commitment to maritime cooperation. One of the key initiatives is the operationalization of the ASEAN Single Shipping Market (ASSM), with a focus on cost-benefit studies and port compliance with international standards. This demonstrates our goal of improving efficiency and sustainability in maritime trade.
5. The launch of updated Electronic Navigational Charts in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore further illustrates our region’s dedication to enhancing navigation safety in these globally critical shipping routes, which serve as one of the most vital arteries for
international trade.
6. We also continue to prioritize decarbonization in the maritime sector. Initiatives such as port digitalization, automation, and green technology adoption are crucial for building a more resilient and environmentally sustainable future in ASEAN.
7. This vision aligns closely with the International Maritime Organisation's (IMO) theme for World Maritime Day 2024, "Navigating the Future: Safety, first!" The theme encourages the global maritime community to embrace innovation and sustainable practices in response to emerging challenges. MTWG’s initiatives, particularly in port digitalization and maritime safety, reflect this global focus on technology-driven solutions and green
practices. By promoting alternative fuels and green shipping, we are preparing the maritime industry for future demands and ensuring it remains sustainable.
8. In light of this theme, we recognize that the future of maritime transport requires collaborative innovation. MTWG’s steps to improve container circulation and explore renewable energy in maritime transport are vital contributions to global efforts, emphasizing resilience in the face of climate change and supply chain challenges.
9. In addition to these maritime developments, the end-term review of the Kuala Lumpur Transport Strategic Plan (KLTSP) 2016-2025 marks a key milestone. This plan, which has guided ASEAN’s transport progress, has seen the successful implementation of 231 out of 243 milestones. This achievement reflects our commitment to strengthening ASEAN’s transport integration across maritime, air, and land transport sectors.
10. Looking ahead, the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) Strategic Plan 2026-2030 and the ASEAN Transport Action Plan post-2025 will shape the next phase of our transport evolution. These plans build on KLTSP’s successes while addressing future challenges.
11. The ASEAN Transport Action Plan 2026-2030 is particularly forward-looking. It focuses on promoting sustainable and smart mobility, as well as advancing transport integration and connectivity across all modes. Key initiatives will include the deeper integration of green technologies, the use of alternative fuels, and the adoption of smart digital solutions in maritime transport. In addition, the new plan encourages stronger collaboration on emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, to modernize and future-proof our transport systems.
12. As we enter this new strategic phase, the ASEAN Transport Action Plan 2026-2030 will help us navigate the challenges ahead by prioritizing resilience, sustainability, and innovation.
13. I would, therefore, like to take this opportunity to commend the ASEAN Secretariat and the MTWG for all the good work done thus far. I am equally thankful to all our Dialogue Partners for their support for the various maritime transport-related initiatives at the ASEAN MTWG. Your contributions have helped spur the development of the maritime sector in ASEAN.
14. Let us continue to work together to build a more connected, sustainable, and prosperous ASEAN through maritime transport and forward-thinking strategies in our broader transport sectors.
15. I now declare the 47th ASEAN MTWG meeting open. I wish you fruitful and productive discussions.
Thank you.
