In order to fulfil the vision, mission and objectives, the Institute has the following functions: Promote and enhance excellence in marine sciences and technology; Enhance regional collaboration and networking in marine sciences research and development, technology and training; Provide specialized field and laboratory facilities to support research in marine sciences and technology; Provide postgraduate training and attract the best post-graduate students and postdoctoral fellows regionally and internationally to undertake research in marine sciences and technology; Provide opportunities to visiting researchers at regional and international levels to share and exchange experiences; Engage in the design and development of scientific instruments and gear technology for research, training, exploration and exploitation of coastal and marine resources; Disseminate research findings to industry, scientific community, public and other customers internationally; Provide scientific and management solutions and advice in marine sciences and technology thus promoting the use of new technologies to end users; and merging theory and practice; Enhance socio-economic development of communities in the coastal areas and around large water bodies in the region; Enhance the protection and sustainable development of the coastal and marine environment in the region.