SMOU joined the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) in celebrating the Day of the Seafarer on 25 June, a day designated by International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to recognise all the seafarers around the world who are engaged in international sea trade, contributing to the world economy and society as a whole. This year’s theme – ‘Empowering Women in the Maritime Community’, drove a strong message home in the maritime world on the importance and value of women in the Maritime Community.
In recognition and appreciation of seafarers’ diligence and perseverance, MPA, together with their partners, prepared and organised a total of 600 hampers to be presented to seafarers when their vessels called at the Port of Singapore. The items for this year’s hamper giveaway consisted of local tasty snacks, card games and a Jenga set.
SMOU Industrial Relations Officer, Kelvin Lin, added a personal touch to the celebration by going onboard MV Mathu Bhum, MV Penang Bridge and MV Rio Madeira docked at Pasir Panjang Terminal on 26 June. Apart from presenting hampers to the seafarers, Kelvin conveyed this year’s theme and encouraged them to show their solidarity for gender equality in seafaring through social media with #IamOnBoard. ITF and SMOU publication were also distributed to the seafarers to share about the work of the union in the maritime industry and the benefits of being part of the union.
The personal ship visit by SMOU, goodie bags and going the extra mile to touch base with the seafarers made their day a memorable one.
Happy Day of the Seafarer to all seafarers around the world.
