M1 inks deal to develop Jurong Port into advanced digital smart port

The telco will enhance the port’s network coverage to boost connectivity and operational efficiency.

M1 signed a Memorandum on Understanding (MOU) with Jurong Port to provide a terminal-wide wireless private network to support the port’s transformation into an advanced digital smart port, an announcement revealed.

Jurong Port is said to play a key role in Singapore’s economic growth as it has been a cornerstone in the country’s development as a global hub port.

According to the parties’ joint statement, M1 will leverage on its heterogeneous network (HetNet) to enhance the network coverage in the terminal and along the port’s berths to promote greater connectivity and operational efficiency.

“The heterogeneous network solution is aligned with Jurong Port’s strategic technology roadmap and this partnership will further equip Jurong Port with the technology platform for the Internet of Things (IoT) and wearables endeavours and autonomous drones exploration,” Jurong Port vice president of information technology Sam Wei Hoong said in a statement.

M1 will also provide wireless backhaul network connectivity to the warehouses and access-layer in individual warehouses, on top of round-the-clock monitoring and technical support, the statement added.

“Using licensed 4G spectrum to support the wireless private network not only eliminates potential interference issues but also allows the port to tap on the private network’s security features for internal communications and transmissions, as well as to leverage on the cellular technologies for use case testing on smart applications, sensors, analytics and other IoT applications,” the parties said in its statement.