Minister for National Development Desmond Lee announced details of a partnership between Singapore and the U.S.-based ocean exploration organization OceanX during an address on [Date of event]. Speaking at the International Maritime and Oceanography Conference, Lee outlined the collaboration’s focus on advancing marine science research, technology, and public education.
The partnership’s central component will be the 2026 visit of the research and media vessel OceanXplorer to Singapore. According to the announcement, the vessel will serve as a hub for joint research expeditions involving scientists from Singaporean institutions and OceanX’s onboard teams. These missions are slated to study marine biodiversity, oceanography, and the impacts of climate change in Southeast Asian waters.
In his remarks, Minister Lee stated that the collaboration aims to enhance Singapore’s role in marine science.
“This partnership with OceanX is a significant step in developing our capabilities as a hub for marine science and technology,” said Lee. “By combining OceanX’s advanced exploration technology with the expertise of our local researchers, we can gain deeper insights into the marine ecosystems of our region.”
The initiative also includes a significant educational outreach component. Plans are underway for the Science Centre Singapore and other local partners to develop programs for students and the public in conjunction with the vessel’s visit. These programs will include ship tours, live-streamed deep-sea dives, and educational content created from the expeditions.
“Bringing the OceanXplorer to Singapore will provide a unique platform to inspire our next generation of scientists, engineers, and environmental stewards,” Lee added.
OceanX is a non-profit organization founded by Ray Dalio. Its vessel, the OceanXplorer, is equipped with submersibles, remotely operated vehicles, and advanced sonar systems for deep-sea exploration and filmmaking.
In a statement, OceanX expressed its commitment to the partnership.
“Singapore’s strategic location and its commitment to scientific excellence make it an ideal partner for our mission to explore the ocean and bring it back to the world,” said Vincent Pieribone, co-CEO and chief science officer of OceanX. “We look forward to working with Singapore’s scientific community to undertake groundbreaking research in the waters of Southeast Asia.”
The collaboration is supported by several government agencies, including the National Research Foundation and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore. It aligns with the nation’s efforts to develop its “Blue Economy,” which focuses on the sustainable use of ocean resources.
Further details on specific research missions and educational activities are expected to be finalized and released in the months leading up to the vessel’s scheduled arrival in 2026.
