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Singapore-based independent marine fuel supplier Global Energy Trading Pte. Ltd. has been presented with this year's Bunker Award at the fifth Singapore International Maritime Awards (IMA) this week.

A biennial event organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) to recognise companies and individuals for their significant contributions to Singapore's development as a major global hub port and international maritime centre, this year's IMA paid tribute to six companies and one distinguished individual.

Presenting the Bunker Award to Global Energy Trading Pte. Ltd. was guest of honour Raymond Lim, Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs.

According to data released by the Maritime and Port Authority (MPA) in January, Global Energy was listed third in Singapore's top 20 bunker suppliers by volume last year. BP Singapore Pte Ltd. was named the leading supplier for the sixth year in a row, followed by fellow oil major ExxonMobil Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd..

Other companies and individuals to be recognised at the IMA were Nanyang Technological University for the Excellence in Training Development Award, Ocean Tankers for the Singapore Registry of Ships (SRS) Ship Owner of the Year Award, Standard Asia for the Maritime Service Provider Award, Keppel Offshore & Marine for the Offshore & Marine Engineering Award, BW Group for the International Maritime Centre (Corporate) Award, and Mr Choo Chiau Beng for the International Maritime Centre (Individual) Award.

According to the MPA, more than 110 'reputable' shipping groups have made Singapore their shipping hub in Asia. Together, these companies register over S$3.3 billion in business expenditure annually. The maritime industry is a key pillar of the Singapore economy, contributing some seven per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP). The 5,000 maritime establishments in Singapore employ more than 100,000 people.

"The IMA is a premium business networking event, celebrating the growth of the Singapore maritime ecosystem as well as the key partnerships important to its success. As a testament to the maritime community's resilience, this year's event has attracted a good turnout. In spite of the recession, about 1,000 maritime luminaries and leaders have come together to renew acquaintances, forge new relationships, as well as explore opportunities in this challenging business climate," the MPA said in a statement.