The union is not just a ‘haven of last resort’ in times of crisis at work, but a ‘haven for all’ in every stage of life and career.

To demonstrate how true this message is, SMOU spoke to some 25 Special Limit Seafarers from the Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA) on 10 May 2023, sharing how the union can impact and benefit them during every different stage of life.

Young SMOU (YSMOU) Chairman Brother Dominic Yong further shared on the role of the union in the seafarers’ employment, and the collaborative efforts with tripartite partners to add value to the maritime industry in Singapore.

What was most relevant to the seafarers were stories of how the union stepped in to help seafarers that were facing some issues in their employment. Brother Dominic shared a few real cases of grievance at the workplace such as unfair termination of employment, unpaid wages and no payout given upon a seafarer’s demise onboard. In each of the stories, the union came to the rescue and successfully helped the members seek justice for their rights.