MPA Probes Engine Breakdown on Singapore-Flagged Ship

Container vessel managed by same firm overseeing ship in US bridge collapse

- Kang Wan Chern

The Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) of Singapore is investigating an incident involving engine issues on Singapore-flagged container ship Maersk Saltoro that broke down on its way to China, delaying the delivery of a multi-million-dollar cargo load of Chilean cherries.

The incident spotlights Singapore's maritime safety laws, crew qualifications and the risks seafarers face - coming as it does after the MV Dali, also Singapore-registered, crashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge in March 2024. The crash brought down the bridge and killed six workers.

An MPA spokesperson told The Straits Times that Singapore adheres to internationally recognised maritime safety standards, ensuring ships are properly built, equipped and operated. Seafarers must be well trained and ship management must follow structured safety procedures.

As the flag administration for Singapore-registered ships, MPA conducts regular inspections and works with eight leading international classification societies to ensure compliance.

"As the flag state, MPA is investigating the reported machinery fault on board the Maersk Saltoro," it said.

On January 13, the Maersk Saltoro suffered a main engine breakdown in the Pacific Ocean, 17 days into its 24-day voyage on the shipping line's "Cherry Express". The service, which runs during the peak cherry export season from November to February, transports highly perishable cherries from Chile to Asia, mainly China, ensuring swift delivery.