Young SMOU Member Muhd. Syafiq B Adanan was a recipient of the SMOU Baby Hamper, and he was in an interesting situation leading up to the birth of his daughter. Syafiq told SeaVoices that his daughter was born while he was halfway through his contract on ship. Seafarers are sometimes faced with the difficult decision to choose between going out to sea and staying on shore to be present for occasions and milestones.

Syafiq, while deliberating on accepting a 6-month contract and being fully aware that his wife’s pregnancy was due in 3 months, was also at a crucial node in his seafaring career. Knowing that his family and in-laws were able to support and help his wife through the pregnancy and delivery, he was at ease and decided to sail and get some income for his family.

A few days before the delivery day, Syafiq received news that his wife had contracted COVID-19 with mild symptoms. As a result, his wife had to isolate from the family, and limited help could be given. This made Syafiq anxious. To make matters worse due to some complications, the doctors had to perform a cesarean delivery instead, which lasted longer than it was supposed to. This threw Syafiq further into a mode of panic and helplessness. “I can still remember; I did not sleep during those 2 days leading up to the delivery, just waiting for news,” he recalled.

Fortunately, after an 8-hour operation, he received news that his wife and daughter were safe and healthy, and immediately all the weight was lifted off his shoulders. “When I finally came back at the airport three months later, it was the first time I held my daughter,” said the proud father. He also gave credit to his other half for being a strong support for his career pursuit, saying, “I am lucky to have a very understanding and patient spouse.”