The introduction of eBS
Before the introduction of the Electronic Business System (eBS) in 2003, applications regarding a vessel’s arrival/departure, free pratique and pre-arrival clearance for crew and passengers had to be submitted to the Marine Department, the Department of Health and the Immigration Department respectively in relation to any vessel entering or departing the port. To facilitate business operations, the three departments simplified the procedures and integrated them into the eBS, enabling shipowners and shipping companies to complete the procedures on a single electronic platform. The eBS renders it no longer necessary to visit each of the three departments to fill out and submit forms through traditional counters.
The two phases of eBS
The eBS was implemented over two phases. Phase 1 saw the setting up of infrastructure and the provision of the e-submission service, which offered an e-option for at least 90% of the public services. For instance, shipping companies could submit port formality documents and register for user accounts electronically through the web portal. In 2008, Phase 2 of the eBS was implemented to speed up the handling of port formalities and the processing of applications for related services, including port health and immigration controls. It simplifies the procedures for submitting related documents required by the Marine Department, the Department of Health, and the Immigration Department. The enhanced system provides many new features such as online approval of applications, self-printing of permits/certificates, autopay, and online application status enquiry.
The advantages of the eBS are many and obvious. Time is saved as data can be delivered and received via the internet; applications can be submitted round the clock; the static information of a vessel may be pre-filled in the relevant forms; and the use of advanced technology makes batch submission of applications for multiple vessels possible. The submission of an application online enables instant application status tracking, in addition to online payment via autopay and self-printing of permits or certificates.
Feedback
The feedback received after the implementation of Phase 2 of the eBS was mostly positive. A user satisfaction survey was conducted in 2011. The findings showed that the system was broadly accepted by users. Most of the suggestions were on the expansion of scope of services and technical support. Records show that the electronic services have been used for about 75% of all applications received.
