MANAMA: The General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) is making preparations ahead of the expected launch of its new online ship registry portal (SRP).

A training session was held at the GOP headquarters for all registered shipowners to introduce them to the portal developed by regional digital agency Affno Middle East.

It is set to simplify the registry and associated services process through a convenient interactive platform for shipowners.

An application form is available through the GOP, and shipowners are urged to become registered users of the new system prior to its launch to become familiar with the portal and ease the transition period.

Registered customers will be able to submit eService applications online as well as track the status of applications and make payments through a secure transaction channel using their credit cards.

It will also include an exclusive auto notification system which will send notices and updates to GOP's customers, using a simple short message service interface or by emails.

Shipowners will also benefit from quicker responses and tracking services as all their eService requests will be processed through a digital workflow within the registry.

"We are continuously striving to demonstrate professional excellence within the shipping industry in addition to providing high quality services to meet the growing needs of our customers," said GOP director general Hassan Ali Al Majed.

"The launch of the new SRP will mark the achievement of one of our main strategic objectives for 2011-2016. With the new portal, we will be able to provide our customers with an easy to use and convenient system."