Singapore's minister for trade and industry has announced a five-year development of the country's offshore petroleum services facility.

Lee Yi Shyan said the $280 million (£157.6 million) development will enhance the nation as an oil and gas centre.

He explained that he wants organisations to undertake a wider range of activities, including gas and oil training, research and development.

Mr Shyan ceremonially broke the ground at the Loyang Offshore base of the Toll's Offshore Petroleum Services.

Hallin Marine is leading the move to the new complex and expects to be operational at its new facility in 18 months.

Eastern operations group managing director Jon Attenburrow said the new facility will rival the very best in the world.

"We have already embraced the Singapore minister's appeal to increase the range of services we offer and this move will enable us to continue to grow the width and breadth of our operations," he added.

This week Total announced a collaboration with Education City to provide oil and gas training in the Middle East.

Global Education and Training event for Oil and Gas: Refining & Petrochemicals