Maritime industry honoured at prestigious Seatrade awards

Individuals, organisations and companies from across the region’s maritime have been honoured in the annual Seatrade Middle East & Indian Subcontinent Awards (SMEISA).

Known as the ‘Oscars’ of the maritime world, the awards were presented at a glittering gala dinner at the Atlantis The Palm Dubai attended by more than 750 of the who’s who of the region’s maritime and shipping industry.

“The companies that were both shortlisted for the awards and those that were winners have shown exemplary levels of achievement, in areas such as technical and operational innovation, commitment to safety and quality, social and environmental responsibility, business acumen and development of human resources. Seatrade salute them all,” said Chris Hayman, Chairman of Seatrade, the award organisers.

The awards were judged by a 12-strong panel of esteemed international judges, led by Rear Admiral Efthimios Mitropoulos, secretary general of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

The evening also featured 4 special awards that were presented to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the industry in the region and have dominated the headlines.

Seatrade Young Person of the Year, a new award for 2011, was awarded to Dr. Priyath Bandu Wickrama, Chairman, Sri Lanka Ports Authority.

Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Ports Company and CEO, Masdar, was announced Seatrade Personality of The Year and Mr Sabyasachi Hajara, Chairman & Managing Director, The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd was awarded for The Seatrade Outstanding Achievement Award.

Jorn Hinge, President and Chief Executive Officer, United Arab Shipping Company (S.A.G.) was honoured with The Seatrade Lifetime Achievement Award for his commitment to the industry and in particular his last 18 years with UASC during which time, one of his greatest achievements has been overseeing the modernisation of the company’s fleet, currently standing at 58 vessels, with efficient, high quality and environmentally friendly tonnage.