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29 May 2026
4 mins
A Night of Milestones and Maritime Camaraderie at SMOU Shanghai Nite & Wavelink CadetsPlus Graduation

The Oriental Grand Ballroom at Shangri-La Qiantan, Shanghai was abuzz with energy as more than 400 SMOU members, shipping partners, and guests gathered for the inaugural SMOU Shanghai Nite. Held on 24 April 2026 alongside the Wavelink CadetsPlus  Graduation, the evening was a celebration of connection, achievement, and shared pride, marking meaningful milestones for the Union and the next generation of maritime professionals. 

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Adding further significance to the occasion, the inaugural SMOU Shanghai Nite was also part of the Union’s 75th anniversary celebrations — a remarkable milestone that reflected decades of steadfast commitment to seafarers. In her opening address, General Secretary Mary Liew captured the spirit of the evening, noting that the celebration was not only about honouring SMOU’s legacy, but also about strengthening support for seafarers across borders and into the future. 

From the outset, the atmosphere was lively and welcoming. Guests were received at a vibrant reception filled with laughter and conversation, setting the tone for the night ahead. An AI photobooth, interactive displays and a claw machine added a playful touch to the evening, sparking interaction and creating shared moments even before the formal programme began. 

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Guest-of-Honour Mr Peter Tan Hai Chuan, Ambassador of Singapore to China, highlighted the strong partnership between Singapore and China, and underscored the importance of continued collaboration within the maritime sector. His remarks reinforced the evening’s central theme of connection, cooperation and shared progress. 

One of the evening’s key moments followed with a celebratory toast and the ceremonial cutting of SMOU’s 75th anniversary cake, led by leaders from SMOU and Wavelink. The symbolic moment marked both the Union’s enduring legacy and its continued journey alongside its partners. SMOU President Rahim Jaffar presented a Token of Appreciation to the Guest-of-Honour, reaffirming the strong ties and mutual respect shared between SMOU and its valued partners. 

As dinner was served, the spotlight turned to the Wavelink CadetsPlus Graduation, where a total of 74 cadets from the programme were celebrated for successfully completing their training. Mr TS Teo, President of the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), presented the CadetsPlus Awards, recognising excellence, resilience and dedication among the graduands. 

Top honours went to Fan Yan Fu from Pacific International Lines (PIL), who received the Best Academic Award, and Chen Yurong from CMA Ships Singapore, who was named Most Outstanding Cadet. Representing her cohort, Chen Yurong delivered a heartfelt reflection on the CadetsPlus journey, sharing the challenges, growth and camaraderie that defined their experience — drawing warm applause from the audience. 

The programme continued with engaging performances and interactive segments that kept energy levels high. Excitement built during the Lucky Draw, Seafarers’ Draw and CadetsPlus Draw, as attractive prizes added to the celebratory spirit of the night. One of the evening’s most memorable moments followed when the Guest-of-Honour delighted the audience by singing Shanghai Tan, earning enthusiastic cheers and applause from guests. 

As the celebration drew to a close, the formal programme gave way to a relaxed and festive atmosphere with live music and karaoke. Members and guests mingled, reconnected, and unwound late into the evening, savouring the camaraderie that defines the maritime community. 

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The programme continued with engaging performances and interactive segments that kept energy levels high. Excitement built during the Lucky Draw, Seafarers’ Draw and CadetsPlus Draw, as attractive prizes added to the celebratory spirit of the night. One of the evening’s most memorable moments followed when the Guest-of-Honour delighted the audience by singing Shanghai Tan, earning enthusiastic cheers and applause from guests. 

As the celebration drew to a close, the formal programme gave way to a relaxed and festive atmosphere with live music and karaoke. Members and guests mingled, reconnected, and unwound late into the evening, savouring the camaraderie that defines the maritime community.