Singapore, 20 August 2026- The Nautical Institute (Singapore Branch) will host its Annual Conference on 20 August 2026 at Furama City Centre, Singapore, bringing together maritimeleaders, regulators, and industry professionals to examine some of the most pressing challenges facing global shipping today.

Held under the theme “Seaworthiness and Seafarers in a Changing World,” theconference will provide a platform for meaningful dialogue on the evolving operational,regulatory, and workforce issues shaping the maritime sector. Through keynoteaddresses, technical presentations, and expert-led panel discussions, delegates will gainvaluable insights into the opportunities and challenges confronting the industry.

The conference will be honoured by Mr Ang Wee Keong, Chief Executive of the Maritimeand Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). As head of one of the world's leading maritimeadministrations and busiest port hubs, Mr Ang plays a key role in advancing Singapore'sposition as a global maritime centre and driving innovation, sustainability, and resilienceacross the industry.

Bringing together experts from legal, insurance, ship management, crewing, training,welfare, and maritime operations backgrounds, the conference aims to foster practicaldiscussions on operational safety, workforce development, and the wellbeing of seafarersin an increasingly complex global environment.

DISTINGUISHED KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

The conference will feature keynote addresses from two highly respected leaders in themaritime industry:

Nick Potter

President & CEO, AET and Vice President, Petroleum & Products, MISC Group

With more than 35 years of experience across the maritime and energy sectors, Nick Potter hasheld senior leadership roles spanning commercial, technical, and operational functions. Prior tojoining AET, he served as Head of Shipping and Maritime for Asia, Pacific and the Middle East atShell and previously as Global Head of Maritime at BG Group. A recognised industry leader, he isactively involved in advancing energy transition initiatives, talent development, and seafarerwelfare.

Sakura Kuma

Executive Officer, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. and Managing Director, MOL (Asia Oceania) Pte. Ltd.

Sakura Kuma brings nearly two decades of maritime leadership experience, having held seniorpositions across global shipping, port operations, and logistics. Prior to joining MOL, she served asChief Executive Officer of APM Terminals Japan and Executive Director of Yokohama KawasakiInternational Port. Her extensive experience across the maritime value chain provides valuableperspectives on industry transformation, operational excellence, and global trade.