MTCC-Asia, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), launched its second branch office on 5 November 2018 at the Myanmar Maritime University (MMU), Yangon, in collaboration with the Department of Maritime Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communication, Myanmar.

Speaking at the launch event, Mr. Thaung Kyaing, Director General of Department of Maritime Administration highlighted the critical importance of GHG emissions reduction for the shipping industry, and appreciated the Global MTCCs Network (GMN) funded by EU and implemented by IMO for providing the opportunity for the Myanmar maritime sector to increase the uptake of low-carbon technologies and operations.

“The establishment of Myanmar branch office is another historical moment for MTCC-Asia as it continues to fulfill its mission for the region to support IMO in addressing climate change issues in the maritime sector.” said Prof. Xin Shi, Executive Chairman of MTCC-Asia and Vice President of Shanghai Maritime University China. He further called for joint efforts by the neighboring countries to promote environmental stewardship and awareness.

A Memorandum of Understanding was formally signed between Myanmar and MTCC Asia. Prof. Xin Shi and Prof. Myat Lwin, the rector of MMU, cut ribbon and unveiled the plate to declare the opening of MTCC-Asia Myanmar Branch Office. Some 80 delegates from Myanmar maritime authority and shipping industry joined and witnessed the launch event.

In the week of 5-9 November, a national workshop and a Train the Trainer Course were delivered by MTCC-Asia in Yangon, offering a package of updated knowledge and strategies in the prevention and control of ship emissions.

The branch office in Myanmar will act as a sub-region focal point for MTCC-Asia which is a part of the IMO Global MTCCs Network. In December 2017, MTCC-Asia set up its first branch office in Cambodia.