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The maritime industry never stops, and neither do the seafarers who keep global trade moving. In celebration of the Day of the Seafarer 2026, close to 70 active seafarers gathered at SMOU’s Day of the Seafarer Networking Night at Lighthouse Bistro for an evening of appreciation, camaraderie and meaningful connections.
Welcoming the attendees, SMOU General Secretary Ms Mary Liew thanked seafarers for their unwavering dedication to the maritime industry. Referencing this year’s Day of the Seafarer theme, “Carry world trade. Carrying the risks.“, she acknowledged the sacrifices and challenges of life at sea, while reaffirming SMOU’s commitment to safeguarding seafarers’ welfare and supporting their professional journey.
Mr Darrick Leow, Senior Deputy Director (Shipping Division), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), echoed these sentiments. He highlighted MPA’s continued collaboration with unions and industry partners to strengthen seafarers’ welfare and safety, and shared how the SailMAP incentive supports career development by recognising milestones throughout a seafarer’s sailing career.
Commending SMOU for bringing the maritime community together, Mr Leow encouraged cadets to build lasting friendships, learn from experienced officers and support one another as they begin their careers at sea.
The evening kicked off with a group photo before guests enjoyed a buffet dinner and live food station. Beyond the meal, the event created valuable opportunities for experienced officers to reconnect, exchange sea stories and share practical advice, while cadets gained insights and guidance ahead of their first shipboard postings.
To commemorate the occasion, attendees received personalised keepsake and appreciation gift, including an SMOU duffle bag and MPA-sponsored travel pouch.
More than a networking session, the gathering was a celebration of the people who keep world trade moving. It also reaffirmed SMOU’s commitment to ensuring that while seafarers may sail far from home, they remain supported by a strong and caring maritime community.
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