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As part of our FACES of SMOU series, we shine a light on Faris Kamaruzaman, SMOU member, Chief Officer, and proud TMTA alumnus. His journey from navigating setbacks to fulfilling his childhood dream of life at sea reflects not only his determination but also the support he received from SMOU and the TMTA programme.
Faris’ fascination with the maritime industry started early, inspired by his father, a retired marine engineer and technical superintendent. However, like many young people, his path to realising this dream wasn’t straightforward. After facing challenges during his academic journey, he temporarily set his sights on a different career.
“I pursued an engineering diploma at a local polytechnic, but my dream of being a seafarer never truly faded,” Faris shared, reflecting on those uncertain years. Even while working as an automation technician in a completely different field, the call of the sea was something he couldn’t ignore.
The turning point came when a friend whom he served National service with introduced him to the TMTA programme. The turning point came during his National Service when a friend introduced him to the TMTA programme. It offered a rare second chance to rekindle his maritime aspirations. “It was like a lifeline. My friend and I applied, went through the programme together, and managed to complete our cadetship,” he recalled. With renewed purpose, Faris embraced rigorous training and took the first steps toward his career as a seafarer.
The transition from life ashore to life at sea brought its share of challenges. Though his technical skills as an automation technician prepared him for some aspects of the work, Faris quickly learned that seafaring demanded more than just technical expertise. Discipline, adaptability, and mental resilience became essential qualities as he adjusted to life on board.
“There’s no denying that life at sea is challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding,” he said, acknowledging the dual nature of his profession. Among his many experiences, one stands out as a vivid reminder of why he chose this path. “During a night watch in the Mediterranean, the calm ocean under a starry sky was breathtaking. It was a moment of pure tranquility that reminded me why I love this job.”
Not every moment was as serene. Faris recounted a particularly harrowing incident during a night watch. “We experienced a steering gear failure while navigating a congested waterway. It was intense, but staying calm and coordinating with my bridge team helped us resolve the situation.” Such moments tested his resolve but also strengthened his confidence in his abilities.
For Faris, being a seafarer is more than just a job; it’s a calling. Each voyage represents a unique opportunity to contribute to global trade and ensure the seamless flow of goods across the world. “Knowing that I play a vital role in global trade is fulfilling. It gives me a sense of purpose that’s hard to find elsewhere,” he explained.
The role of SMOU in his journey has been pivotal. From the structured training provided by TMTA to the support offered through initiatives like SAILMAP, SMOU has equipped Faris with the tools to succeed. “SMOU has been there every step of the way. The SAILMAP initiative, in particular, has helped me prepare for my Chief Officer license,” he shared.
Looking to the future, Faris remains committed to his personal growth and contributing to the industry’s evolution. “It’s important to stay adaptable. The maritime world is evolving, and as seafarers, we need to evolve with it.” Having attained his Chief Officer license, Faris continues to exemplify the spirit of resilience and lifelong learning.
Faris Kamaruzaman’s journey is a compelling story of perseverance, passion, and purpose. From rekindling a childhood dream to becoming a Chief Officer, his path is a reminder of the unique challenges and rewards of life at sea. It also underscores the critical role that SMOU and its programmes play in shaping the futures of seafarers like Faris, inspiring the next generation to navigate their own journeys.
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