39“Speed Christmas” in 6 hours

We are an ordinary Swedish family:
rice pudding with cream and a little vanilla) with
Karin is a teacher and Bengt is a forester.
one almond. The tradition is that the person who
We have 3 children and 5 grandchildren.
gets the almond will get married next year. Who got
We became a host family for the first time
the almond? We’ll keep that a secret!
this year. With help from Lyndell andFinally, thank you for the invitation to thefriends who are experienced as hosts, we are
reception honoring the 2011 Sasakawa Fellows held
trying to be as good a host family as we can.
by OPRF of Japan. We really enjoyed it.
We keep in contact with our students andRecipespend time together, exchanging thoughts
and experiences. We learn and get so much
Stinas ginger-bread biscuitback from the students. We open up our(family recipe since the 19th century)
home and try to make it a “safe harbor” for
Set the oven to 175-200°C.
WMU students, introducing them to our
1.5 dl syrup
Swedish way of life, in manners and customs
3 dl sugar
and tradition.
1.5 tablespoons grated ginger
Our students are Baigalmaa Damba from
Grated skin from ½ lemon
Mongolia and Nadiya Isikova from Ukraine.
1¼ hg butter
1½ dl cream
One Saturday just before Christmas, 3½ teaspoon bicarbonate
students (Farooq Ali from Pakistan was a welcome “extra”) and our son
1.2l wheat-flourand daughter-in-law celebrated a “Speed Christmas” with us. We
baked ginger-bread biscuits (see the recipe on the right!) and decorated
Warm the syrup and mix with sugar, spices and butter. Whip thethem with icing. We decorated the Christmas tree, and prepared a cream and mix it in. Put bicarbonate and a little ﬂour through a sieve
typical Swedish Christmas meal - like a Swedish “smörgåsbord” with a and work in the rest of the flour. If the dough gets too firm, use a
Christmas touch - Christmas ham, meatballs, herring, cabbage (cooked little less flour.
in ham bouillon and fried with cream and pepper) and much more. Let the dough stand overnight. The next day, roll the dough out
Karin almost panicked when we remembered that one student is thinly and cut into biscuits using shaped cutters, and bake in the
Muslim and does not eat ham, and one student is a vegetarian! But, oven for about 10 minutes. Don’t let them burn!
fortunately, a real Swedish “julbord” has food for everyone.
Good Luck!
Karin played the piano and we sang Christmas carols. Our
Karin and Bengt Bergman
traditional “Speed Christmas” ended with Rice à la Malta (boiled(Host family in Malmö)

June

2012

Interview withKoji Sekimizu

Secretary-General,
International Maritime Organizationcommodities such as oil, grain, rice and evenwater are looming on the horizon. Africa
faces famine once again; and all this against
a background of global warming and climatechange.

A year of many blessings... Marc Anthony Panelo Pascua (Philippines, 2012)

Year 2011 was a great year not only for me but for my family. Great news came when I was
accepted and sponsored by The Nippon Foundation to study at the World Maritime University
in Sweden. It was also when we learned that a new addition to the family was on the way.
I had mixed feelings, as I was excited to go to Sweden to study, but at the same time hesitantbecause I would be leaving my family behind, especially my pregnant wife.
The birth of Marc Joshua escalated my feelings beyond explanation. I felt nervous, excited andeuphoric about being a new father again. He was born on December 2, 2011, which wasdifficult for me because I was so eager to go home to see my family, but I had to concentrate on
my review for the foundation studies examination before the winter holidays.
I thank God for having taken care of my family, and for the blessings He has given us.

Notice of Temporary Relocation of our Office
We wish to notify you that the Ocean Policy Research Foundation (OPRF) was temporarily relocated to the following address
this spring due to refurbishment work at our building. We lookforward to your continued support after our relocation.

Address:

8th floor, Toranomon 35 Mori Building,
3-4-10 Toranomon, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 105-0001 JAPAN
Telephone: +81-(0)3-5404-6828
Facsimile: +81-(0)3-5404-6800

For further information, please visit our website at: http://www.sof.or.jp/en/index.php

Editor’s note

The City of London has been busy lately, putting on her “makeup” to for piracy was in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. This violent
welcome people from all over the world to important events such as the problem had been mostly eradicated by regional cooperation, such as
Olympic Games, Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee, and of course, the “Eye in the Sky”. However, it is said that the root cause of the
problem of the pirates off Somalia is not on the sea but on land, so we
IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee 90.
We discussed many important issues, but two contemporary issues, must support the people of Somalia to find “better business” than piracy.
piracy and passenger ship safety, were the hot topics. On this occasion, I think some Sasakawa Fellows can play a role in the corporation
IMO held two important meetings just before the MSC Meeting to scheme, such as the Djibouti Code of Conduct. I applaud your great
discuss international cooperation for capacity building to combat piracy efforts and hope you all stay safe.
Tomoya Shimizu
off the Coast of Somalia. IMO, the United Nations and member
General Manager of International Officecountries acknowledged the importance of cooperation to combat this
The Japan Association of Marine Safety (JAMS)
ruthless crime. In 2004, when I was studying at WMU, the core region

Mr. Kunihiko Kitabayashi, Mr. Tomoya Shimizu

Toranomon 35 Mori Building, 3-4-10 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001 JAPAN
Tel: +81-(0)3-5404-6828 Fax: +81-(0)3-5404-6800 URL: http://http://www.sof.or.jp/

1

Mr. Sekimizu, thank you for sharing yourvery precious time for this interview. We
appreciate how very busy you are in your new
responsibilities. Could you, first of all, send amessage to the students of WMU under theWMU Sasakawa Fellowship Program?
This is one of my first opportunities to address
friends and colleagues from the maritime
industries, and, in particular, students of
WMU, in my new role, so may I begin bysaying how much I look forward to continuing
to work together with you now, and in the
future, from my new vantage point.
I consider my appointment to the post of
Secretary-General of IMO to be a truly greathonor, both for myself and for my country. I
am aware that it carries heavy expectations andI hope it goes without saying that I intend to
put my utmost effort into working to meetthose expectations.

2

What are the major challenges the shipping
industry and IMO are currently facing?
Just as we seemed to be recovering from thefinancial crash of 2008 and the recession that
followed, the European debt crisis has
arrived to throw the financial foundations of
our society into turmoil once again. The
global population has passed 7 billion and iscontinuing to rise. Shortages of vital

Needless to say, shipping, too, is facing hugechallenges. The fortunes of the industry areinterwoven with the state of global trade andthe world economy. And shipping is also
under pressure to play its part in the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
What makes things worse is that the period
immediately before the financial crisis of2008 was one of great expansion. The hugeinvestment in new ships during that time isnow coming back to haunt the industry as
over-capacity drives down freight rates andmakes cost increases even harder to bear.
The industry is no stranger to difficulties.
Seaborne trade experienced huge setbacks in
the late 1970s and ‘80s due to the oil crises of
the 1970s. The circumstances of today’s
problems may be radically different, but one
underlying fact remains unchanged. The
sustainable development and growth of theworld’s economy will not be possible
without similar sustainable growth inshipping and, therefore, in the entire
maritime industry sector. And despite thecurrent global economic problems, growth
seems inevitable in the longer term. If
nothing else, the rising global population
should ensure that is the case.
Looking closer to home, IMO also faces
significant challenges:• Piracy – perhaps the most urgent andpressing issue with which we have tocontend, with its humanitarian, economic
and, potentially, environmental aspects;• The continuing greenhouse gas debate –
how
do
we
ensureeffective
implementation of the energy efficiency
measures already adopted and develop
appropriate market-based measures todrive even greater efficiencies;• Continuing to offer, and deliver,meaningful and effective technicalco-operation and capacity building;• The introduction of the IMO audit scheme
as a mandatory measure;• Achieving a sustainable, long-term
financial basis for the World Maritime
University and ensuring it has a viable
mode of operation for the future;• Plus, of course, all the many and varied
technical issues that arise as we strive
constantly to improve the international
regulatory structure that ensures shipping
remains safe, secure, efficient andenvironment-friendly.
Underlying all of these is the need to makesure that shipping continues to be regulated
by international standards, adopted byconsensus where possible and applied
universally. Regional or unilateral regulationof such a truly international industry issimply not in anyone’s interest.
If you take a positive outlook, as I do, thendifficulties
becomechallenges
andchallenges become opportunities. And I
believe we have the opportunities to turn thedifficult years ahead into years of solutions.
Specifically we will be seeking solutions topiracy; solutions to the difficulties
surroundingthedevelopmentofmarket-based greenhouse gas reduction
measures; solutions to the remaining
problems surrounding the implementationof the mandatory IMO Member State audit
scheme; and solutions to securing the futureof the World Maritime University.

9

What first attracted you to the maritime
field?
I cannot provide a precise answer to thisquestion. What I can say is that I was bornin Yokohama and the schools I went to wereon the hill, overlooking the port of
Yokohama and shipbuilding yards. In myschool days, I spent ample time in thetowns, streets and port areas and this may
have influenced me to select naval
architecture as the subject to study at
University.

3

What is IMO’s agenda in the field of shipsafety?
This year we mark 100 years since theinfamous and seminal sinking of the Titanic.
In addition to paying tribute to the memoryof those who lost their lives in that tragic
event, the year will provide an opportunity
for IMO and the maritime community toreview the substantial progress andachievements that have been made since thattragedy, consider the present challenges weface in that respect and contemplate thefuture for maritime safety.
We will be forward-looking, and ready totake into account emerging new technologies
and innovations that may bring even better
results in the maritime transportation
systems of the future.

4

In June this year, the United Nations will
be holding an important Conference onsustainable development. Will IMO beinvolved?
I do not need to emphasize the importance of
the UN Conference on Sustainable
Development, Rio +20, which will take placein Rio de Janeiro in June. That event will be ofvital importance. And so, too, will be theprocess leading up to and following on from it.
Just as the original Earth Summit in Rio led tovaluable and effective work by IMO in supportof the so-called Agenda 21 that emerged fromthat meeting, we are now supporting the Rio+20 process and creating our own way forward
for shipping in the context of sustainable
development.
IMO will play a critical role in promoting
environmentally sound and sustainableshipping. It stands ready to provide theinstitutional framework for the pursuit of theseobjectives, within the context of the Rio +20
Conference. I look forward to constructive
debate in the Rio +20 process, and an outcomethat will be beneficial for both the global
economy and the environment.

5Will IMO continue to play a major role in the
global effort to counter piracy?
On the issue of anti-piracy measures, it is clear

10

What are your cherished mottoes? And
hobbies?
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon meeting with Mr. Koji Sekimizu,
Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization

The foundation stone of the building set to house a regional training centre in
Djibouti was laid during a ceremony in Djibouti in October 2011that more needs to be done to protect ships atsea; more needs to be done on land; and thatIMO can, and should, continue to make asignificant contribution in both areas.

It ensured that the standards contained
within the two conventions did not conflictwith one another, thereby causing
difficulties for Governments, the industry
and seafarers, with regard to theiracceptance and effective implementationand enforcement. By the same token, we
have also been co-operating with other UNbodies, such as WHO, FAO and the United
Nations Security Council, on issues relating
to the health and well-being of seafarers.

We also have a duty to care for the seafarers
operating their ships through pirate-infested
areas.
IMO is, and remains, primarily a technicalbody, with a proud reputation for solving
thesafety,security
andenvironment-related technical problems
that face the maritime community.
However, in this century, the shipping
industry is faced with a number ofchallenges that cut across a wide range ofpolitical, technical and legal issues. IMO
should, therefore, provide a forum fordiscussion and in-depth analysis of theseissues from all angles. We must do this not
only to continue to issue ever-more
adequate and robust guidance, but also toprovide clear directions and a clear message
to the global community and to the United
Nations, that shipping needs their support
and protection if it is to continue to provide
the expected level of service to world trade
and the global economy.
We will, therefore, continue to debate theissue of piracy at IMO and I hope that the
Maritime Safety Committee, supported by the
Legal Committee and the Facilitation
Committee, will take positive actions that willturn the tide in our fight against this appalling
crime.

6

What are your aspirations in the field oftechnical co-operation?
I want to touch briefly upon IMO's
technical co-operation activities. I believe2

they should be strengthened, and that weshould reinforce our support to developing
countries. We should be ready to help them
improve their efficiency and increase theircapability to participate fully in maritime
activities. Each country should have its own
maritime development policy and IMO
should be able, through its technicalco-operation program, to assist in theimplementation and enforcement of IMO
instruments. Meeting the needs ofdeveloping countries should be central to
IMO’s work as part of the United Nations
family.

8

Would you have any message to convey tothe shipping industry?
As Secretary-General of IMO I will do myutmost to create a fresh, vibrant and proactive
organization that meets current and futurechallenges and, in doing so, I look forward,
with confidence, to the co-operation andsupport that I am sure will come from theshipping industry in coming years.

I don’t have any specific cherished mottoes.
But I am fond of reading books about Asian
philosophy and classic Chinese books, ofcourse in Japanese, although I read some
Chinese characters.
They certainly give me principles andguidance in my life. I also often read books
on management by eminent Japanesebusiness leaders.
My hobbies are playing golf, composing
songs and playing the guitar.
Thank you.

7

Could you touch upon the issue of seafarers?
I should not let this opportunity passwithout saying a few words about seafarer
issues. A landmark was achieved at the
beginning of this year when the Manila
amendments to the STCW Convention
and Code entered into force, on January 1,
2012. Their purpose is to ensure thatseafarers will be educated and trained tostandards that will enable them to operate
the technologically-advanced ships oftoday, and for the foreseeable future, withthe required degree of safety and security
and with due regard to their responsibilities
vis-à-vis the environment. This is aconsiderable step forward for the humanelement in shipping.
As well as providing for high competence
and operational standards, the quality ofseafarers’ work and life on board is also an
important objective in IMO’s work on thehuman element. To this end, theharmonization of chapter VIII of the
STCW Convention and Code with ILO’s
consolidated Maritime Labour Conventionof 2006 was considered equally important.

Two Bigwigs
Met in Singapore“Singapore Maritime Week”, one of theforemost events in the maritime industry, washeld in mid-April, and The Nippon
Foundation provided one seminar on April
26 at the Marina Mandarin Hotel.
The program, “Seminar on CSR Activities for
the Shipping Industry”, was sponsored by The
Nippon Foundation, BIMCO and the Japan
International Transport Institute (JITI). The
program sought to explain the basic principles
of CSR, practical activities and benefits forcompanies, and to foster sustainable
development in the maritime supply chain. It
was an open seminar, hence some Sasakawa
Fellows living in Singapore were able toparticipate.
The opening remarks were by Mr. Sasakawa,followed by Mr. Khatau, President of
BIMCO. The Nippon Foundation has a long
history promoting transportation safety in theStraits of Malacca and Singapore and calledon the maritime industry, especiallystakeholders, to share the burden inmaintaining safe navigation in the Straits.
Mr. Sasakawa also talked about the “CSR
Association” in his speech. President Khatau
emphasized the importance of improving the3industry’s image and attracting the next
generation to the maritime field. Mr.
Sekimizu, Secretary General of IMO, also
gave a fine speech, and Mr. Kjerfve, ourbeloved President of WMU, joined theseminar as well. It was a very impressive andfruitful program for the Fellows who
participated.
Tomoya Shimizu (Japan, 2004)difficult years ahead into years of solutions.
Specifically we will be seeking solutions topiracy; solutions to the difficulties
surroundingthedevelopmentofmarket-based greenhouse gas reduction
measures; solutions to the remaining
problems surrounding the implementationof the mandatory IMO Member State audit
scheme; and solutions to securing the futureof the World Maritime University.

9

What first attracted you to the maritime
field?
I cannot provide a precise answer to thisquestion. What I can say is that I was bornin Yokohama and the schools I went to wereon the hill, overlooking the port of
Yokohama and shipbuilding yards. In myschool days, I spent ample time in thetowns, streets and port areas and this may
have influenced me to select naval
architecture as the subject to study at
University.

3

What is IMO’s agenda in the field of shipsafety?
This year we mark 100 years since theinfamous and seminal sinking of the Titanic.
In addition to paying tribute to the memoryof those who lost their lives in that tragic
event, the year will provide an opportunity
for IMO and the maritime community toreview the substantial progress andachievements that have been made since thattragedy, consider the present challenges weface in that respect and contemplate thefuture for maritime safety.
We will be forward-looking, and ready totake into account emerging new technologies
and innovations that may bring even better
results in the maritime transportation
systems of the future.

4

In June this year, the United Nations will
be holding an important Conference onsustainable development. Will IMO beinvolved?
I do not need to emphasize the importance of
the UN Conference on Sustainable
Development, Rio +20, which will take placein Rio de Janeiro in June. That event will be ofvital importance. And so, too, will be theprocess leading up to and following on from it.
Just as the original Earth Summit in Rio led tovaluable and effective work by IMO in supportof the so-called Agenda 21 that emerged fromthat meeting, we are now supporting the Rio+20 process and creating our own way forward
for shipping in the context of sustainable
development.
IMO will play a critical role in promoting
environmentally sound and sustainableshipping. It stands ready to provide theinstitutional framework for the pursuit of theseobjectives, within the context of the Rio +20
Conference. I look forward to constructive
debate in the Rio +20 process, and an outcomethat will be beneficial for both the global
economy and the environment.

5Will IMO continue to play a major role in the
global effort to counter piracy?
On the issue of anti-piracy measures, it is clear

10

What are your cherished mottoes? And
hobbies?
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon meeting with Mr. Koji Sekimizu,
Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization

The foundation stone of the building set to house a regional training centre in
Djibouti was laid during a ceremony in Djibouti in October 2011that more needs to be done to protect ships atsea; more needs to be done on land; and thatIMO can, and should, continue to make asignificant contribution in both areas.

It ensured that the standards contained
within the two conventions did not conflictwith one another, thereby causing
difficulties for Governments, the industry
and seafarers, with regard to theiracceptance and effective implementationand enforcement. By the same token, we
have also been co-operating with other UNbodies, such as WHO, FAO and the United
Nations Security Council, on issues relating
to the health and well-being of seafarers.

We also have a duty to care for the seafarers
operating their ships through pirate-infested
areas.
IMO is, and remains, primarily a technicalbody, with a proud reputation for solving
thesafety,security
andenvironment-related technical problems
that face the maritime community.
However, in this century, the shipping
industry is faced with a number ofchallenges that cut across a wide range ofpolitical, technical and legal issues. IMO
should, therefore, provide a forum fordiscussion and in-depth analysis of theseissues from all angles. We must do this not
only to continue to issue ever-more
adequate and robust guidance, but also toprovide clear directions and a clear message
to the global community and to the United
Nations, that shipping needs their support
and protection if it is to continue to provide
the expected level of service to world trade
and the global economy.
We will, therefore, continue to debate theissue of piracy at IMO and I hope that the
Maritime Safety Committee, supported by the
Legal Committee and the Facilitation
Committee, will take positive actions that willturn the tide in our fight against this appalling
crime.

6

What are your aspirations in the field oftechnical co-operation?
I want to touch briefly upon IMO's
technical co-operation activities. I believe2

they should be strengthened, and that weshould reinforce our support to developing
countries. We should be ready to help them
improve their efficiency and increase theircapability to participate fully in maritime
activities. Each country should have its own
maritime development policy and IMO
should be able, through its technicalco-operation program, to assist in theimplementation and enforcement of IMO
instruments. Meeting the needs ofdeveloping countries should be central to
IMO’s work as part of the United Nations
family.

8

Would you have any message to convey tothe shipping industry?
As Secretary-General of IMO I will do myutmost to create a fresh, vibrant and proactive
organization that meets current and futurechallenges and, in doing so, I look forward,
with confidence, to the co-operation andsupport that I am sure will come from theshipping industry in coming years.

I don’t have any specific cherished mottoes.
But I am fond of reading books about Asian
philosophy and classic Chinese books, ofcourse in Japanese, although I read some
Chinese characters.
They certainly give me principles andguidance in my life. I also often read books
on management by eminent Japanesebusiness leaders.
My hobbies are playing golf, composing
songs and playing the guitar.
Thank you.

7

Could you touch upon the issue of seafarers?
I should not let this opportunity passwithout saying a few words about seafarer
issues. A landmark was achieved at the
beginning of this year when the Manila
amendments to the STCW Convention
and Code entered into force, on January 1,
2012. Their purpose is to ensure thatseafarers will be educated and trained tostandards that will enable them to operate
the technologically-advanced ships oftoday, and for the foreseeable future, withthe required degree of safety and security
and with due regard to their responsibilities
vis-à-vis the environment. This is aconsiderable step forward for the humanelement in shipping.
As well as providing for high competence
and operational standards, the quality ofseafarers’ work and life on board is also an
important objective in IMO’s work on thehuman element. To this end, theharmonization of chapter VIII of the
STCW Convention and Code with ILO’s
consolidated Maritime Labour Conventionof 2006 was considered equally important.

Two Bigwigs
Met in Singapore“Singapore Maritime Week”, one of theforemost events in the maritime industry, washeld in mid-April, and The Nippon
Foundation provided one seminar on April
26 at the Marina Mandarin Hotel.
The program, “Seminar on CSR Activities for
the Shipping Industry”, was sponsored by The
Nippon Foundation, BIMCO and the Japan
International Transport Institute (JITI). The
program sought to explain the basic principles
of CSR, practical activities and benefits forcompanies, and to foster sustainable
development in the maritime supply chain. It
was an open seminar, hence some Sasakawa
Fellows living in Singapore were able toparticipate.
The opening remarks were by Mr. Sasakawa,followed by Mr. Khatau, President of
BIMCO. The Nippon Foundation has a long
history promoting transportation safety in theStraits of Malacca and Singapore and calledon the maritime industry, especiallystakeholders, to share the burden inmaintaining safe navigation in the Straits.
Mr. Sasakawa also talked about the “CSR
Association” in his speech. President Khatau
emphasized the importance of improving the3industry’s image and attracting the next
generation to the maritime field. Mr.
Sekimizu, Secretary General of IMO, also
gave a fine speech, and Mr. Kjerfve, ourbeloved President of WMU, joined theseminar as well. It was a very impressive andfruitful program for the Fellows who
participated.
Tomoya Shimizu (Japan, 2004)

In Memory of Professor Ishida
I count myself fortunate to have known Kenji
Ishida and was shocked when I received the sadnews of his untimely passing from Eisuke Kudo.
The World Maritime University is a remarkable
example of global cooperation, with staff andstudents from around the world working together
harmoniously – and also small enough for us all to
get to know one another.
But I got to know Kenji especially well when wewere both staying at the Henrik Smith residence
during the early part of 1996. During my six years
at WMU my wife and I had rented a townhouseat Limhamn, but during my last three months –whilst our worldly goods were being shipped out –I moved to Henrik Smith. During this time, most
mornings Kenji and I used to travel together to the
University.

His enthusiasm and lively sense of humor
were infectious and made him extremely goodcompany. We had many interesting
discussions on subjects of mutual interest – aswell as ‘setting the world right’ – but, of course,
not the University!
On a Saturday we would occasionally godown to Limhamn and have lunch at the Yacht
Club, which he enjoyed. I think the staff there
must have had mutual feelings as, on our final
visit, we were given complimentary drinks.
Kenji’s personal qualities – along with his
professionalism and academic abilities – madehim a valuable member of the WMU ‘crew’.
Our condolences have gone to Keiko.
I valued Kenji’s friendship and will retain
fond memories of our time together at WMU.

I first met Professor Kenji Ishida at WMU in
1993. I was immediately impressed by his tirelessenergy, intellect, warmth and deep commitment
to his family, students and the teachingprofession. Though busy with his professorial
duties, he spent endless time seeking new ways to
get additional Japanese funding support for the
University especially through the Sasakawa
Fellowship program, in addition to establishing
the annual Japan Field Study program.
His able guidance, selfless devotion andassistance continued year after year when on
numerous occasions I escorted the WMU

Sasakawa Fellows on their study trips to Japan, as
he was always waiting in Kobe to greet us with
open arms. Kenji-san made it a point during mystays in Kobe to give me the opportunity toexperience the many special types of food anddrink that are unique to the Kansai region, as wellas providing fascinating cultural and historic
insights about the country and people of Japan.
May his spirit and good works continue to live on
in all those who had the good fortune to know him,
as he was truly a special person who will be deeply
missed, but certainly not forgotten, by his devoted
family and many friends throughout the world.

Dr. Kenji Ishida was four years my senior atuniversity, but it wasn’t until I visited WMU in
September 1993, 17 years after graduating, that I
first met him. Like the former marine engineer
that he was, he was scrupulous and considerate inhis behavior towards me. He would give lecturesin front of students, and I was deeply impressedby the leadership that he showed in guiding them.
As his junior professionally, I greatly admired
how he flourished in his activities at the World
Maritime University, so far from Japan.
Subsequently, when I took over WMU’s MET
Course as his successor, I experienced pleasure at
the honor but, to be honest, my anxiety was evengreater. That I was somehow able to fulfill myduties for nearly four years was due to nothingother than the multifaceted advice that I received
from Kenji.
After returning to Japan I worked with him,and I was looking forward to cooperating with
him to further advance the global MET field
when I was dumbfounded by the news of his
all-too-early passing.
In the future, as the one of us remaining, I will
work to eternally perpetuate his spirit.
From his son I heard that on his last night hewas enjoying a banquet with everyone in a
dream. That was Kenji!
In heaven, too, please enjoy that banquet. And
because until now you charged ahead with all yourmight, please rest in peace. And please be assured
that I will steadfastly work to carry out your wishes.

nineties for several years’ employment at theWorld Maritime University, a fresh wind ofenthusiasm accompanied him. He never showed
any shyness; making friends was easy for him.
Many doors opened for him in Swedish society
after people met him.
A new life in a foreign country can be difficult
for nearly all of us, especially when it comes to
new food, but Kenji enjoyed every dish, warm or
cold. A cold beer or glass of wine was always
appreciated by him.
When time allowed we would travel a lot in
Sweden. One summer vacation we went to Järvsö,
Hälsingland, because I promised him that fishing
was perfect in that part of Sweden, but actually, we
couldn’t catch a thing. Instead, a lot of mosquitoes
Impossible to Forget
After a long struggle against a severe illness, near our cottage made life miserable for us.
A highlight during his term at WMU was aformer Professor Kenji Ishida of WMU passed
calligraphy exhibition performed by all theaway in January this year.
students at Börshuset near Central Station.
When Kenji arrived in Malmö in the early

It is a great loss when someone with such asincere way of encouraging others is suddenly nolonger among us.
Many WMU students will long remember the
wonderful professor they met at Malmö.

Dan Waters(Former President, WMU)

Bruce P. Browne(Former Vice President, WMU)

Toshio Hikima(Marine Technical Education Agency, Japan)

Yoko and Erich Siebert(Friends from Malmö)

4

After arriving at the airport, Mr. Ishida
telephoned me. I offered to pick him up but heinsisted on making arrangements to hire a car.
Although it took some time before he arrived, hefinally reached our home in Malmo safely. He wasproudly driving the Volvo that he had rented. That
was my first encounter with Mr. Ishida.
Mr. Ishida was the kind of person who did
everything on his own and cared for his students
just like members of his own family. He grew his
own vegetables and on one occasion he evenprepared and grilled an eel for us. Ishida-san has
left us with plenty of pleasant memories.

Momoko Morishige(Master Course, Kobe University)

We learned so many things from
Ishida-sensei. At first, the most impressive
thing was the “importance of the ability tocommunicate in English”. Therefore, in ourlaboratory, we did the research presentation for
our final paper in English, even though it wasusually done in Japanese. This experience
helped us learn how to state our opinions inEnglish. And as he often accepted foreign
students,
thishelpedfostergreaterinternational communication in our laboratory.
These steps really allowed us to improve ourEnglish communication skills.
Also, he loved to have conversations anddrink sake with students. We were always able

to learn even more important things from his
stories than from just our studies.
Thank you, Ishida-sensei, for having such a
wonderful influence on us. All the time spent
with you I will treasure for the rest of my life. I

will always keep you in my heart, and I will
make every effort to contribute to the maritime
industry in the future.
I sincerely pray for your soul, and may you
rest in peace.

Messages of Condolence Recevied at the Funeral(President, WMU)

(Former Professor of MET, WMU)Peter & Jane Muirhead

Lim Yew Seng

It was with great sadness that the World
Maritime University family learned thismorning of Kenji’s death.
Even though he left WMU fifteen years ago,
there are still many people here who remember
him with great fondness. Kenji was always thelife and soul of any party, and his irrepressible
and sparkling sense of humor endeared him to
everyone who worked or studied with him. His
kindness to generations of students will never be
forgotten.
Kenji was also a fine academic. He was in thevanguard of the University’s work to bring
WMU’s academic standing to the standard ofuniversities elsewhere, and his academic andintellectual qualities did a great deal toregenerate the Maritime Education & Training
specialization, and the Master of Science
program as a whole.
Although it was never my good fortune towork as a colleague of Kenji, I was privileged tomeet him briefly after I became President of
WMU. His interest in the University and its
students continued to be strong, as was his
concern for close and robust links with The
Nippon Foundation and the Ocean Policy
Research Foundation.
Kenji was one of those rare members ofFaculty whose impact on the University was
pivotal, and his beneficent influence has
extended, and will continue to extend, over us in
the years to come.
With warmest best wishes from the whole
WMU community,
January 17, 2012

I have just received with great sadness the newsof the recent death of Kenji Ishida via colleagues
at WMU. As you know, he was a close colleague
and friend at WMU during my time as Professor
of MET 1993-2004, Kenji working closely withme for many years. He was a charming person,
always supportive, dedicated to his students, very
knowledgeable in his subject and delightfulcompany. My wife Jane and I enjoyed many
happy social family times together with Kenji,
Keiko and their children Tatsu and Mona. His
family is very much in our thoughts at thisgrieving time and we would like to pass on tothem our most heartfelt condolences at their sad
loss of husband and father. The global maritime
world has lost a great champion of MET!

My wife Lily and I send our thoughts andprayers to Mrs. Ishida and her family at thisdifficult time. Prof. Ishida guided me throughmy years at WMU, and I will always remember
his kindness and compassion towards his
students, friends and family. He was very highly
respected throughout WMU.

Björn Kjerfve

Jian Yu(China, 1993)

It is unbelievable to hear of my best friend, Prof.
Kenji ISHIDA’s passing, since I just received his
greeting card on Dec. 28, 2011. I am writing thisletter to express my deep, deep sorrow. Prof. Kenji
was a hard working, friendly and respectful man,
his talent and spirit always shining and greatly
appreciated. His leaving us is a great blow to themaritime industry. The world has lost an amazing
human being, and those of us who have been
fortunate enough to know and study with Prof.
Kenji have lost a dear friend and great mentor. His
generous and smiling face will forever stay in mymind. I wish for him eternal peace. Please send mywife Peng Hong’s and my most sincere
condolences to all Prof. Kenji’s family.

5(Malaysia, 1997)

Tadayuki Uemura(Japan, 1996-1998)

Through his efforts, Professor Ishida was apioneer in establishing a firm link between
WMU and Japan. He was also respected andloved by hundreds of students as one of thekindest and friendliest teachers at WMU.
Personally, I remember my first visit to
Malmö in December 1996 when I was coming
to work at WMU, Professor Ishida kindly
picked me up at the airport in snowy and dark
conditions, and minus 5 degrees.
A week later, after having kindly and efficiently
taught me all the essential information about
Malmö city and WMU itself, he left for Japan.
I offer my sincerest condolences,

In Memory of Professor Ishida
I count myself fortunate to have known Kenji
Ishida and was shocked when I received the sadnews of his untimely passing from Eisuke Kudo.
The World Maritime University is a remarkable
example of global cooperation, with staff andstudents from around the world working together
harmoniously – and also small enough for us all to
get to know one another.
But I got to know Kenji especially well when wewere both staying at the Henrik Smith residence
during the early part of 1996. During my six years
at WMU my wife and I had rented a townhouseat Limhamn, but during my last three months –whilst our worldly goods were being shipped out –I moved to Henrik Smith. During this time, most
mornings Kenji and I used to travel together to the
University.

His enthusiasm and lively sense of humor
were infectious and made him extremely goodcompany. We had many interesting
discussions on subjects of mutual interest – aswell as ‘setting the world right’ – but, of course,
not the University!
On a Saturday we would occasionally godown to Limhamn and have lunch at the Yacht
Club, which he enjoyed. I think the staff there
must have had mutual feelings as, on our final
visit, we were given complimentary drinks.
Kenji’s personal qualities – along with his
professionalism and academic abilities – madehim a valuable member of the WMU ‘crew’.
Our condolences have gone to Keiko.
I valued Kenji’s friendship and will retain
fond memories of our time together at WMU.

I first met Professor Kenji Ishida at WMU in
1993. I was immediately impressed by his tirelessenergy, intellect, warmth and deep commitment
to his family, students and the teachingprofession. Though busy with his professorial
duties, he spent endless time seeking new ways to
get additional Japanese funding support for the
University especially through the Sasakawa
Fellowship program, in addition to establishing
the annual Japan Field Study program.
His able guidance, selfless devotion andassistance continued year after year when on
numerous occasions I escorted the WMU

Sasakawa Fellows on their study trips to Japan, as
he was always waiting in Kobe to greet us with
open arms. Kenji-san made it a point during mystays in Kobe to give me the opportunity toexperience the many special types of food anddrink that are unique to the Kansai region, as wellas providing fascinating cultural and historic
insights about the country and people of Japan.
May his spirit and good works continue to live on
in all those who had the good fortune to know him,
as he was truly a special person who will be deeply
missed, but certainly not forgotten, by his devoted
family and many friends throughout the world.

Dr. Kenji Ishida was four years my senior atuniversity, but it wasn’t until I visited WMU in
September 1993, 17 years after graduating, that I
first met him. Like the former marine engineer
that he was, he was scrupulous and considerate inhis behavior towards me. He would give lecturesin front of students, and I was deeply impressedby the leadership that he showed in guiding them.
As his junior professionally, I greatly admired
how he flourished in his activities at the World
Maritime University, so far from Japan.
Subsequently, when I took over WMU’s MET
Course as his successor, I experienced pleasure at
the honor but, to be honest, my anxiety was evengreater. That I was somehow able to fulfill myduties for nearly four years was due to nothingother than the multifaceted advice that I received
from Kenji.
After returning to Japan I worked with him,and I was looking forward to cooperating with
him to further advance the global MET field
when I was dumbfounded by the news of his
all-too-early passing.
In the future, as the one of us remaining, I will
work to eternally perpetuate his spirit.
From his son I heard that on his last night hewas enjoying a banquet with everyone in a
dream. That was Kenji!
In heaven, too, please enjoy that banquet. And
because until now you charged ahead with all yourmight, please rest in peace. And please be assured
that I will steadfastly work to carry out your wishes.

nineties for several years’ employment at theWorld Maritime University, a fresh wind ofenthusiasm accompanied him. He never showed
any shyness; making friends was easy for him.
Many doors opened for him in Swedish society
after people met him.
A new life in a foreign country can be difficult
for nearly all of us, especially when it comes to
new food, but Kenji enjoyed every dish, warm or
cold. A cold beer or glass of wine was always
appreciated by him.
When time allowed we would travel a lot in
Sweden. One summer vacation we went to Järvsö,
Hälsingland, because I promised him that fishing
was perfect in that part of Sweden, but actually, we
couldn’t catch a thing. Instead, a lot of mosquitoes
Impossible to Forget
After a long struggle against a severe illness, near our cottage made life miserable for us.
A highlight during his term at WMU was aformer Professor Kenji Ishida of WMU passed
calligraphy exhibition performed by all theaway in January this year.
students at Börshuset near Central Station.
When Kenji arrived in Malmö in the early

It is a great loss when someone with such asincere way of encouraging others is suddenly nolonger among us.
Many WMU students will long remember the
wonderful professor they met at Malmö.

Dan Waters(Former President, WMU)

Bruce P. Browne(Former Vice President, WMU)

Toshio Hikima(Marine Technical Education Agency, Japan)

Yoko and Erich Siebert(Friends from Malmö)

4

After arriving at the airport, Mr. Ishida
telephoned me. I offered to pick him up but heinsisted on making arrangements to hire a car.
Although it took some time before he arrived, hefinally reached our home in Malmo safely. He wasproudly driving the Volvo that he had rented. That
was my first encounter with Mr. Ishida.
Mr. Ishida was the kind of person who did
everything on his own and cared for his students
just like members of his own family. He grew his
own vegetables and on one occasion he evenprepared and grilled an eel for us. Ishida-san has
left us with plenty of pleasant memories.

Momoko Morishige(Master Course, Kobe University)

We learned so many things from
Ishida-sensei. At first, the most impressive
thing was the “importance of the ability tocommunicate in English”. Therefore, in ourlaboratory, we did the research presentation for
our final paper in English, even though it wasusually done in Japanese. This experience
helped us learn how to state our opinions inEnglish. And as he often accepted foreign
students,
thishelpedfostergreaterinternational communication in our laboratory.
These steps really allowed us to improve ourEnglish communication skills.
Also, he loved to have conversations anddrink sake with students. We were always able

to learn even more important things from his
stories than from just our studies.
Thank you, Ishida-sensei, for having such a
wonderful influence on us. All the time spent
with you I will treasure for the rest of my life. I

will always keep you in my heart, and I will
make every effort to contribute to the maritime
industry in the future.
I sincerely pray for your soul, and may you
rest in peace.

Messages of Condolence Recevied at the Funeral(President, WMU)

(Former Professor of MET, WMU)Peter & Jane Muirhead

Lim Yew Seng

It was with great sadness that the World
Maritime University family learned thismorning of Kenji’s death.
Even though he left WMU fifteen years ago,
there are still many people here who remember
him with great fondness. Kenji was always thelife and soul of any party, and his irrepressible
and sparkling sense of humor endeared him to
everyone who worked or studied with him. His
kindness to generations of students will never be
forgotten.
Kenji was also a fine academic. He was in thevanguard of the University’s work to bring
WMU’s academic standing to the standard ofuniversities elsewhere, and his academic andintellectual qualities did a great deal toregenerate the Maritime Education & Training
specialization, and the Master of Science
program as a whole.
Although it was never my good fortune towork as a colleague of Kenji, I was privileged tomeet him briefly after I became President of
WMU. His interest in the University and its
students continued to be strong, as was his
concern for close and robust links with The
Nippon Foundation and the Ocean Policy
Research Foundation.
Kenji was one of those rare members ofFaculty whose impact on the University was
pivotal, and his beneficent influence has
extended, and will continue to extend, over us in
the years to come.
With warmest best wishes from the whole
WMU community,
January 17, 2012

I have just received with great sadness the newsof the recent death of Kenji Ishida via colleagues
at WMU. As you know, he was a close colleague
and friend at WMU during my time as Professor
of MET 1993-2004, Kenji working closely withme for many years. He was a charming person,
always supportive, dedicated to his students, very
knowledgeable in his subject and delightfulcompany. My wife Jane and I enjoyed many
happy social family times together with Kenji,
Keiko and their children Tatsu and Mona. His
family is very much in our thoughts at thisgrieving time and we would like to pass on tothem our most heartfelt condolences at their sad
loss of husband and father. The global maritime
world has lost a great champion of MET!

My wife Lily and I send our thoughts andprayers to Mrs. Ishida and her family at thisdifficult time. Prof. Ishida guided me throughmy years at WMU, and I will always remember
his kindness and compassion towards his
students, friends and family. He was very highly
respected throughout WMU.

Björn Kjerfve

Jian Yu(China, 1993)

It is unbelievable to hear of my best friend, Prof.
Kenji ISHIDA’s passing, since I just received his
greeting card on Dec. 28, 2011. I am writing thisletter to express my deep, deep sorrow. Prof. Kenji
was a hard working, friendly and respectful man,
his talent and spirit always shining and greatly
appreciated. His leaving us is a great blow to themaritime industry. The world has lost an amazing
human being, and those of us who have been
fortunate enough to know and study with Prof.
Kenji have lost a dear friend and great mentor. His
generous and smiling face will forever stay in mymind. I wish for him eternal peace. Please send mywife Peng Hong’s and my most sincere
condolences to all Prof. Kenji’s family.

5(Malaysia, 1997)

Tadayuki Uemura(Japan, 1996-1998)

Through his efforts, Professor Ishida was apioneer in establishing a firm link between
WMU and Japan. He was also respected andloved by hundreds of students as one of thekindest and friendliest teachers at WMU.
Personally, I remember my first visit to
Malmö in December 1996 when I was coming
to work at WMU, Professor Ishida kindly
picked me up at the airport in snowy and dark
conditions, and minus 5 degrees.
A week later, after having kindly and efficiently
taught me all the essential information about
Malmö city and WMU itself, he left for Japan.
I offer my sincerest condolences,Our Responsibility for Maritime Safety

Contemporary Shipping and Maritime Safety,
an Issue for All-100 years after the TITANIC-

Alexander Adu-Antwi (Ghana, 2012)

Future Maritime Safety

Amos Zanwonjah (Liberia, 2000）

One of the greatest accidents in maritime quality and effectiveness of all operations andhistory was that of the Titanic, which happened ensure maintenance of high standards (Ringbom,
100 years ago, and more could be done to 2008, p.46). This is achievable through theenhance maritime safety today.
implementation of all policies set by IMO and
The first step should be to improve security other regulation boards and organizations. In(Kristiansen, 2004, p.34).
addition, execution of all safety processes andSecond, it would be very beneficial to develop procedures is imperative. Establishing a quality
strong policies that regulate and control the management system would aid in identifying
activities and operations of the maritime industry. breaches in security, managing them andThird, there is a need to improve accountability consequently putting measures in place to preventand program management. Service leaders at all future occurrences of such incidences (Ringbom,
management levels should cultivate and foster 2008, p.49). Moreover, quality managementtransparency. They should also take responsibility systems increase passengers’ confidence in thein improving operations and accessibility without maritime industry because of the notion ofcompromising safety. In addition, management improved safety.
structures and programs should be in line with
Finally, risk assessment should be frequent tocustomers’ needs and requirements of the IMO maintain safety in the transportation ofregarding safety (Kristiansen, 2004, p.73).
dangerous and polluting goods. Risk assessments
Fourth, it is important to establish quality would help in the reduction of accidents that may
management systems that will monitor the lead to pollution and consequent danger topassengers (Ringbom, 2008, p.61). For example,
oil spills have in the past caused extensive
pollution that have destroyed marine ecosystems
and posed great threats to marine life. Risk
assessments would give information on traffic
developments, possible causes of accidents andpotential dangerous environmental factors. This
information would help in improving maritime
security.
The maritime industry is one of the greatest
and most dangerous sectors internationally. It has
experienced several tragic accidents in the past,
including the Titanic. Since then, safety has been
under scrutiny because of inherent limitations. It
can be achieved through better regulative policies,
risk assessments, the establishment of quality
management systems and the improvement ofaccountability and program management.

A Few Weaknesses in the ISM Codeand PSC Implementation

Safety is a prime concern to all stakeholders in to shape design and operational improvements.
the maritime industry. It should be prioritized, One could argue that ISM is performing such a
progressive, and must entail a concerted effort function through the safety management system.
from flag states, port states, ship owners, and There is no doubt that it has been somewhat
seafarers to make sure that it becomes part of their effective, but there is still more room foreveryday operations. It is hard to accept accidents improvement, since too often, crew members arelike the Costa Concordia and others at a time not willing to report causalities for fear of been
when the industry, together with international victimized. The system is designed without input
maritime organizations, is showcasing to the from those using it. Rather, it is a top-downworld the tremendous achievements in maritime system, creating opportunities for ship owners tosafety during this centenary celebration of the abuse crew members.
famous tragedy of the Titanic. Some of these
Secondly, the industry should consider futureachievements, such as SOLAS, ISM, HSSC and improvements in technology, based on the
ISPS, to just mention a few, have been developed User-Centered Design (UCD) approach. UCD
to address issues of maritime safety and security. is a broad term used to describe design processes
Our industry happens to be one where data on whereby end-users form the core of thosecausality is very hard to find. The first step is for us determining how a technology should beto develop a centralized causality reporting and designed. The role of the designer is to facilitate
investigation system, in order to create a credible tasks for the user and to make sure that the
database to aid design, regulation, management product can be utilized as intended, with aand operations in the industry. The database minimum amount of training. This would reduce
could serve as a reference point to mitigate future the rate of accidents caused by human error.
incidences. For example, aviation is said to be the Efforts are being made by researchers to develop
safest mode of transport because there is readily the best technologies to make shipping safer foravailable data on past accidents, which has helped all, and let me commend the Horizon project for

their effort to investigate the effects of fatigue on
the cognitive performance of marine
watch-keepers, using a range of simulators, under
different watch patterns and workload
conditions.
In contemporary shipping, ship-manning has
seen a reduction in the number of crew members
onboard ships. This has resulted in the crew doing
more than what is normally expected of them,
resulting in fatigue and the like. It is importantthat in the near future, the industry considers
adding crew members with training inwatch-keeping to be solely responsible for the
ship’s welfare administrative matters and the
documentation required by conventions. Their
training will enable them to be on minimum
watch, serving as a relief for the captain and thechief engineer. This would enable the captain toconcentrate on the bridge, without worrying
about which documents should be filled out.
It is this writer’s opinion that the industry
already has a lot of regulations to ensure safety. If
well implemented by the stakeholders, shipping
can be efficient, effective, and secure.

Active Participation of Sasakawa Fellows
in Maritime Education and Training Sectors of Myanmar

Victoria N. Radchenko (Ukraine, 2001)

As a tutor of Maritime Law and Training forcrew members at the post-graduate level, andhaving a Master of Science degree in Maritime
Affairs from WMU, I have had extensive
conversations with dozens of students about thepractical implementation of Maritime Law as apart of my methods aimed at achieving higher
efficiency in the education process.
After long discussions with these students,
most of whom are acting maritime officers on
foreign ships sailing all over the globe, I havecome to the conclusion that the implementationof some legislative documents is very
controversial.
For instance, Section 9 of the ISM Code wasunanimously declared by my students (working
officers!) as one that is almost impossible tocomply with in practice. This Section sets out
requirements for “reports and analysis of
non-conformities, accidents and hazardous
occurrences”. It contains provisions on thenecessity to report “non-conformities, accidents
and hazardous accidents” to the Company. They
have to be investigated and analyzed in order toimprove safety and prevent marine environmental
pollution.
It is true that in order to guarantee safety andsecurity and to avoid repeating situations that are
dangerous to the environment, it’s necessary to beable to analyze previous situations (potentially
dangerous for a variety of reasons) that havecaused accidents. Prevention is necessary, andevaluated non-conformities and near misses areopportunities to learn. After this analysis ofdangerous situations it is possible to find out
where things went wrong, leading to thenon-conformities, near misses, and accidents.
Following this, corrective actions can be
introduced. It’s a good idea, but it does not always
work. According to seafarer experience, inpractice, such reports often lead to thepunishment of the crew members who filled out
the report, even if the situation was only
potentially dangerous. According to interviews
with 100 respondents, the fear of punishment
and loss of their job makes them stay silent andnot report in 85% (!) of all cases. A confidential
hazardous incident reporting program could
work, but for now it is only being implemented in
the UK commercial and general aviation andmaritime industry.
Another issue that is interesting to investigate
is the implementation of Port State control insome developing countries (and unfortunately in6some developed countries). This issue is one of
the most robust sources of shipping security
threats. The idea of cooperation between Flag
State Control and Port State Control is very
good, but only if there is no corruption going onin the latter. Unfortunately, PSC officers in thesecountries often do not follow procedures to checkdocuments first, but instead proceed directly to adetailed check, trying to find existing and nonexisting non-compliances. Moreover, in someports there is a well-known “price” to pay to avoid
these detailed checks. As a result, problems areresolved under the table with cash. In such cases,
ships are only given a cursory check without
paying any attention to real safety issues. In otherwords, everybody knows how much cash has tobe paid in what port, by what ship and for whatkind of “non-compliance” – without any
connection to real non-compliances. All this not
only undermines safety with all the technologies
and machinery involved, making technicalinnovations senseless, but also ridicules the idea ofloyalty towards existing maritime law regulations
in general. This problem should be investigated,anonymous audits of PSC are necessary, and amechanism to anticipate PSC corruption has tobe developed.

Swe Swe Zin(Myanmar, 2010)

Myanmar Maritime University

In Myanmar, there are two government
maritime education and training organizations,
Myanmar Maritime University (MMU) andMyanmar
Mercantile
MarineCollege(MMMC). MMU is currently implementing
academic plans to fulfill the following strategic
aims:
to contribute towards the modernization anddevelopment of the State through the maritime
industry;
to nurture ethical, skillful and reputable
maritime experts;
to teach science and technology contributing to
the maritime profession;
to make plans and arrangements for theperpetual development of the maritime industry;
to know and comply with the provisions andstandards prescribed by the International
Maritime Organization; andto carry out necessary research projects for thedevelopment of the maritime industry.

Being a major maritime education and training
center, MMU offers bachelor’s degree courses in
naval architecture, marine engineering, port andharbor engineering, river and coastal engineering,
marine electrical systems and electronics, marine
mechanical engineering, and nautical science. In
addition, full-time and part-time post-graduate
diploma courses in shipping management andport management are offered, especially to thoseworking for maritime-related businesses in boththe private and public sectors. Regarding thesustainable development of MMU, someacademic cooperative projects, such as researchand scholarly activities, have been explored withforeign universities.
Similarly, MMMC is now making an effort toupgrade and update its training facilities to suit
the training needs required by the STCW
Convention. The training courses conducted at
the college are designed not only to provide
training in the relevant maritime fields but also to7emphasize discipline and the creation of
responsible mariners to satisfy the latest IMO(STCW’ 95) standards.
Accordingly, the qualifications of the teaching
staff at both MMU and MMMC are directly andstrongly related to the development of the
Myanmar Maritime Industry. In this regard, thewonderful support of Mr. Yohei Sasakawa and
The Nippon Foundation greatly benefits
maritime education and training organizations
towards the perpetual enhancement of maritime
knowledge, by providing their staff members withthe marvelous opportunity to study at the World
Maritime University.
At present, Sasakawa Fellows who have
graduated from WMU are actively participatingin the development of Myanmar’s maritime
education and training sectors, which means that
the Myanmar shipping industry will be moredeveloped and the number of qualified seafarers
here will keep growing in the future.

Our Responsibility for Maritime Safety

Contemporary Shipping and Maritime Safety,
an Issue for All-100 years after the TITANIC-

Alexander Adu-Antwi (Ghana, 2012)

Future Maritime Safety

Amos Zanwonjah (Liberia, 2000）

One of the greatest accidents in maritime quality and effectiveness of all operations andhistory was that of the Titanic, which happened ensure maintenance of high standards (Ringbom,
100 years ago, and more could be done to 2008, p.46). This is achievable through theenhance maritime safety today.
implementation of all policies set by IMO and
The first step should be to improve security other regulation boards and organizations. In(Kristiansen, 2004, p.34).
addition, execution of all safety processes andSecond, it would be very beneficial to develop procedures is imperative. Establishing a quality
strong policies that regulate and control the management system would aid in identifying
activities and operations of the maritime industry. breaches in security, managing them andThird, there is a need to improve accountability consequently putting measures in place to preventand program management. Service leaders at all future occurrences of such incidences (Ringbom,
management levels should cultivate and foster 2008, p.49). Moreover, quality managementtransparency. They should also take responsibility systems increase passengers’ confidence in thein improving operations and accessibility without maritime industry because of the notion ofcompromising safety. In addition, management improved safety.
structures and programs should be in line with
Finally, risk assessment should be frequent tocustomers’ needs and requirements of the IMO maintain safety in the transportation ofregarding safety (Kristiansen, 2004, p.73).
dangerous and polluting goods. Risk assessments
Fourth, it is important to establish quality would help in the reduction of accidents that may
management systems that will monitor the lead to pollution and consequent danger topassengers (Ringbom, 2008, p.61). For example,
oil spills have in the past caused extensive
pollution that have destroyed marine ecosystems
and posed great threats to marine life. Risk
assessments would give information on traffic
developments, possible causes of accidents andpotential dangerous environmental factors. This
information would help in improving maritime
security.
The maritime industry is one of the greatest
and most dangerous sectors internationally. It has
experienced several tragic accidents in the past,
including the Titanic. Since then, safety has been
under scrutiny because of inherent limitations. It
can be achieved through better regulative policies,
risk assessments, the establishment of quality
management systems and the improvement ofaccountability and program management.

A Few Weaknesses in the ISM Codeand PSC Implementation

Safety is a prime concern to all stakeholders in to shape design and operational improvements.
the maritime industry. It should be prioritized, One could argue that ISM is performing such a
progressive, and must entail a concerted effort function through the safety management system.
from flag states, port states, ship owners, and There is no doubt that it has been somewhat
seafarers to make sure that it becomes part of their effective, but there is still more room foreveryday operations. It is hard to accept accidents improvement, since too often, crew members arelike the Costa Concordia and others at a time not willing to report causalities for fear of been
when the industry, together with international victimized. The system is designed without input
maritime organizations, is showcasing to the from those using it. Rather, it is a top-downworld the tremendous achievements in maritime system, creating opportunities for ship owners tosafety during this centenary celebration of the abuse crew members.
famous tragedy of the Titanic. Some of these
Secondly, the industry should consider futureachievements, such as SOLAS, ISM, HSSC and improvements in technology, based on the
ISPS, to just mention a few, have been developed User-Centered Design (UCD) approach. UCD
to address issues of maritime safety and security. is a broad term used to describe design processes
Our industry happens to be one where data on whereby end-users form the core of thosecausality is very hard to find. The first step is for us determining how a technology should beto develop a centralized causality reporting and designed. The role of the designer is to facilitate
investigation system, in order to create a credible tasks for the user and to make sure that the
database to aid design, regulation, management product can be utilized as intended, with aand operations in the industry. The database minimum amount of training. This would reduce
could serve as a reference point to mitigate future the rate of accidents caused by human error.
incidences. For example, aviation is said to be the Efforts are being made by researchers to develop
safest mode of transport because there is readily the best technologies to make shipping safer foravailable data on past accidents, which has helped all, and let me commend the Horizon project for

their effort to investigate the effects of fatigue on
the cognitive performance of marine
watch-keepers, using a range of simulators, under
different watch patterns and workload
conditions.
In contemporary shipping, ship-manning has
seen a reduction in the number of crew members
onboard ships. This has resulted in the crew doing
more than what is normally expected of them,
resulting in fatigue and the like. It is importantthat in the near future, the industry considers
adding crew members with training inwatch-keeping to be solely responsible for the
ship’s welfare administrative matters and the
documentation required by conventions. Their
training will enable them to be on minimum
watch, serving as a relief for the captain and thechief engineer. This would enable the captain toconcentrate on the bridge, without worrying
about which documents should be filled out.
It is this writer’s opinion that the industry
already has a lot of regulations to ensure safety. If
well implemented by the stakeholders, shipping
can be efficient, effective, and secure.

Active Participation of Sasakawa Fellows
in Maritime Education and Training Sectors of Myanmar

Victoria N. Radchenko (Ukraine, 2001)

As a tutor of Maritime Law and Training forcrew members at the post-graduate level, andhaving a Master of Science degree in Maritime
Affairs from WMU, I have had extensive
conversations with dozens of students about thepractical implementation of Maritime Law as apart of my methods aimed at achieving higher
efficiency in the education process.
After long discussions with these students,
most of whom are acting maritime officers on
foreign ships sailing all over the globe, I havecome to the conclusion that the implementationof some legislative documents is very
controversial.
For instance, Section 9 of the ISM Code wasunanimously declared by my students (working
officers!) as one that is almost impossible tocomply with in practice. This Section sets out
requirements for “reports and analysis of
non-conformities, accidents and hazardous
occurrences”. It contains provisions on thenecessity to report “non-conformities, accidents
and hazardous accidents” to the Company. They
have to be investigated and analyzed in order toimprove safety and prevent marine environmental
pollution.
It is true that in order to guarantee safety andsecurity and to avoid repeating situations that are
dangerous to the environment, it’s necessary to beable to analyze previous situations (potentially
dangerous for a variety of reasons) that havecaused accidents. Prevention is necessary, andevaluated non-conformities and near misses areopportunities to learn. After this analysis ofdangerous situations it is possible to find out
where things went wrong, leading to thenon-conformities, near misses, and accidents.
Following this, corrective actions can be
introduced. It’s a good idea, but it does not always
work. According to seafarer experience, inpractice, such reports often lead to thepunishment of the crew members who filled out
the report, even if the situation was only
potentially dangerous. According to interviews
with 100 respondents, the fear of punishment
and loss of their job makes them stay silent andnot report in 85% (!) of all cases. A confidential
hazardous incident reporting program could
work, but for now it is only being implemented in
the UK commercial and general aviation andmaritime industry.
Another issue that is interesting to investigate
is the implementation of Port State control insome developing countries (and unfortunately in6some developed countries). This issue is one of
the most robust sources of shipping security
threats. The idea of cooperation between Flag
State Control and Port State Control is very
good, but only if there is no corruption going onin the latter. Unfortunately, PSC officers in thesecountries often do not follow procedures to checkdocuments first, but instead proceed directly to adetailed check, trying to find existing and nonexisting non-compliances. Moreover, in someports there is a well-known “price” to pay to avoid
these detailed checks. As a result, problems areresolved under the table with cash. In such cases,
ships are only given a cursory check without
paying any attention to real safety issues. In otherwords, everybody knows how much cash has tobe paid in what port, by what ship and for whatkind of “non-compliance” – without any
connection to real non-compliances. All this not
only undermines safety with all the technologies
and machinery involved, making technicalinnovations senseless, but also ridicules the idea ofloyalty towards existing maritime law regulations
in general. This problem should be investigated,anonymous audits of PSC are necessary, and amechanism to anticipate PSC corruption has tobe developed.

Swe Swe Zin(Myanmar, 2010)

Myanmar Maritime University

In Myanmar, there are two government
maritime education and training organizations,
Myanmar Maritime University (MMU) andMyanmar
Mercantile
MarineCollege(MMMC). MMU is currently implementing
academic plans to fulfill the following strategic
aims:
to contribute towards the modernization anddevelopment of the State through the maritime
industry;
to nurture ethical, skillful and reputable
maritime experts;
to teach science and technology contributing to
the maritime profession;
to make plans and arrangements for theperpetual development of the maritime industry;
to know and comply with the provisions andstandards prescribed by the International
Maritime Organization; andto carry out necessary research projects for thedevelopment of the maritime industry.

Being a major maritime education and training
center, MMU offers bachelor’s degree courses in
naval architecture, marine engineering, port andharbor engineering, river and coastal engineering,
marine electrical systems and electronics, marine
mechanical engineering, and nautical science. In
addition, full-time and part-time post-graduate
diploma courses in shipping management andport management are offered, especially to thoseworking for maritime-related businesses in boththe private and public sectors. Regarding thesustainable development of MMU, someacademic cooperative projects, such as researchand scholarly activities, have been explored withforeign universities.
Similarly, MMMC is now making an effort toupgrade and update its training facilities to suit
the training needs required by the STCW
Convention. The training courses conducted at
the college are designed not only to provide
training in the relevant maritime fields but also to7emphasize discipline and the creation of
responsible mariners to satisfy the latest IMO(STCW’ 95) standards.
Accordingly, the qualifications of the teaching
staff at both MMU and MMMC are directly andstrongly related to the development of the
Myanmar Maritime Industry. In this regard, thewonderful support of Mr. Yohei Sasakawa and
The Nippon Foundation greatly benefits
maritime education and training organizations
towards the perpetual enhancement of maritime
knowledge, by providing their staff members withthe marvelous opportunity to study at the World
Maritime University.
At present, Sasakawa Fellows who have
graduated from WMU are actively participatingin the development of Myanmar’s maritime
education and training sectors, which means that
the Myanmar shipping industry will be moredeveloped and the number of qualified seafarers
here will keep growing in the future.

39“Speed Christmas” in 6 hours

We are an ordinary Swedish family:
rice pudding with cream and a little vanilla) with
Karin is a teacher and Bengt is a forester.
one almond. The tradition is that the person who
We have 3 children and 5 grandchildren.
gets the almond will get married next year. Who got
We became a host family for the first time
the almond? We’ll keep that a secret!
this year. With help from Lyndell andFinally, thank you for the invitation to thefriends who are experienced as hosts, we are
reception honoring the 2011 Sasakawa Fellows held
trying to be as good a host family as we can.
by OPRF of Japan. We really enjoyed it.
We keep in contact with our students andRecipespend time together, exchanging thoughts
and experiences. We learn and get so much
Stinas ginger-bread biscuitback from the students. We open up our(family recipe since the 19th century)
home and try to make it a “safe harbor” for
Set the oven to 175-200°C.
WMU students, introducing them to our
1.5 dl syrup
Swedish way of life, in manners and customs
3 dl sugar
and tradition.
1.5 tablespoons grated ginger
Our students are Baigalmaa Damba from
Grated skin from ½ lemon
Mongolia and Nadiya Isikova from Ukraine.
1¼ hg butter
1½ dl cream
One Saturday just before Christmas, 3½ teaspoon bicarbonate
students (Farooq Ali from Pakistan was a welcome “extra”) and our son
1.2l wheat-flourand daughter-in-law celebrated a “Speed Christmas” with us. We
baked ginger-bread biscuits (see the recipe on the right!) and decorated
Warm the syrup and mix with sugar, spices and butter. Whip thethem with icing. We decorated the Christmas tree, and prepared a cream and mix it in. Put bicarbonate and a little ﬂour through a sieve
typical Swedish Christmas meal - like a Swedish “smörgåsbord” with a and work in the rest of the flour. If the dough gets too firm, use a
Christmas touch - Christmas ham, meatballs, herring, cabbage (cooked little less flour.
in ham bouillon and fried with cream and pepper) and much more. Let the dough stand overnight. The next day, roll the dough out
Karin almost panicked when we remembered that one student is thinly and cut into biscuits using shaped cutters, and bake in the
Muslim and does not eat ham, and one student is a vegetarian! But, oven for about 10 minutes. Don’t let them burn!
fortunately, a real Swedish “julbord” has food for everyone.
Good Luck!
Karin played the piano and we sang Christmas carols. Our
Karin and Bengt Bergman
traditional “Speed Christmas” ended with Rice à la Malta (boiled(Host family in Malmö)

June

2012

Interview withKoji Sekimizu

Secretary-General,
International Maritime Organizationcommodities such as oil, grain, rice and evenwater are looming on the horizon. Africa
faces famine once again; and all this against
a background of global warming and climatechange.

A year of many blessings... Marc Anthony Panelo Pascua (Philippines, 2012)

Year 2011 was a great year not only for me but for my family. Great news came when I was
accepted and sponsored by The Nippon Foundation to study at the World Maritime University
in Sweden. It was also when we learned that a new addition to the family was on the way.
I had mixed feelings, as I was excited to go to Sweden to study, but at the same time hesitantbecause I would be leaving my family behind, especially my pregnant wife.
The birth of Marc Joshua escalated my feelings beyond explanation. I felt nervous, excited andeuphoric about being a new father again. He was born on December 2, 2011, which wasdifficult for me because I was so eager to go home to see my family, but I had to concentrate on
my review for the foundation studies examination before the winter holidays.
I thank God for having taken care of my family, and for the blessings He has given us.

Notice of Temporary Relocation of our Office
We wish to notify you that the Ocean Policy Research Foundation (OPRF) was temporarily relocated to the following address
this spring due to refurbishment work at our building. We lookforward to your continued support after our relocation.

Address:

8th floor, Toranomon 35 Mori Building,
3-4-10 Toranomon, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 105-0001 JAPAN
Telephone: +81-(0)3-5404-6828
Facsimile: +81-(0)3-5404-6800

For further information, please visit our website at: http://www.sof.or.jp/en/index.php

Editor’s note

The City of London has been busy lately, putting on her “makeup” to for piracy was in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. This violent
welcome people from all over the world to important events such as the problem had been mostly eradicated by regional cooperation, such as
Olympic Games, Her Majesty’s Diamond Jubilee, and of course, the “Eye in the Sky”. However, it is said that the root cause of the
problem of the pirates off Somalia is not on the sea but on land, so we
IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee 90.
We discussed many important issues, but two contemporary issues, must support the people of Somalia to find “better business” than piracy.
piracy and passenger ship safety, were the hot topics. On this occasion, I think some Sasakawa Fellows can play a role in the corporation
IMO held two important meetings just before the MSC Meeting to scheme, such as the Djibouti Code of Conduct. I applaud your great
discuss international cooperation for capacity building to combat piracy efforts and hope you all stay safe.
Tomoya Shimizu
off the Coast of Somalia. IMO, the United Nations and member
General Manager of International Officecountries acknowledged the importance of cooperation to combat this
The Japan Association of Marine Safety (JAMS)
ruthless crime. In 2004, when I was studying at WMU, the core region

Mr. Kunihiko Kitabayashi, Mr. Tomoya Shimizu

Toranomon 35 Mori Building, 3-4-10 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0001 JAPAN
Tel: +81-(0)3-5404-6828 Fax: +81-(0)3-5404-6800 URL: http://http://www.sof.or.jp/

1

Mr. Sekimizu, thank you for sharing yourvery precious time for this interview. We
appreciate how very busy you are in your new
responsibilities. Could you, first of all, send amessage to the students of WMU under theWMU Sasakawa Fellowship Program?
This is one of my first opportunities to address
friends and colleagues from the maritime
industries, and, in particular, students of
WMU, in my new role, so may I begin bysaying how much I look forward to continuing
to work together with you now, and in the
future, from my new vantage point.
I consider my appointment to the post of
Secretary-General of IMO to be a truly greathonor, both for myself and for my country. I
am aware that it carries heavy expectations andI hope it goes without saying that I intend to
put my utmost effort into working to meetthose expectations.

2

What are the major challenges the shipping
industry and IMO are currently facing?
Just as we seemed to be recovering from thefinancial crash of 2008 and the recession that
followed, the European debt crisis has
arrived to throw the financial foundations of
our society into turmoil once again. The
global population has passed 7 billion and iscontinuing to rise. Shortages of vital

Needless to say, shipping, too, is facing hugechallenges. The fortunes of the industry areinterwoven with the state of global trade andthe world economy. And shipping is also
under pressure to play its part in the
reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
What makes things worse is that the period
immediately before the financial crisis of2008 was one of great expansion. The hugeinvestment in new ships during that time isnow coming back to haunt the industry as
over-capacity drives down freight rates andmakes cost increases even harder to bear.
The industry is no stranger to difficulties.
Seaborne trade experienced huge setbacks in
the late 1970s and ‘80s due to the oil crises of
the 1970s. The circumstances of today’s
problems may be radically different, but one
underlying fact remains unchanged. The
sustainable development and growth of theworld’s economy will not be possible
without similar sustainable growth inshipping and, therefore, in the entire
maritime industry sector. And despite thecurrent global economic problems, growth
seems inevitable in the longer term. If
nothing else, the rising global population
should ensure that is the case.
Looking closer to home, IMO also faces
significant challenges:• Piracy – perhaps the most urgent andpressing issue with which we have tocontend, with its humanitarian, economic
and, potentially, environmental aspects;• The continuing greenhouse gas debate –
how
do
we
ensureeffective
implementation of the energy efficiency
measures already adopted and develop
appropriate market-based measures todrive even greater efficiencies;• Continuing to offer, and deliver,meaningful and effective technicalco-operation and capacity building;• The introduction of the IMO audit scheme
as a mandatory measure;• Achieving a sustainable, long-term
financial basis for the World Maritime
University and ensuring it has a viable
mode of operation for the future;• Plus, of course, all the many and varied
technical issues that arise as we strive
constantly to improve the international
regulatory structure that ensures shipping
remains safe, secure, efficient andenvironment-friendly.
Underlying all of these is the need to makesure that shipping continues to be regulated
by international standards, adopted byconsensus where possible and applied
universally. Regional or unilateral regulationof such a truly international industry issimply not in anyone’s interest.
If you take a positive outlook, as I do, thendifficulties
becomechallenges
andchallenges become opportunities. And I
believe we have the opportunities to turn the