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In an industry as dynamic as the maritime sector, SMOU is taking a proactive approach to ensure that the union remains relevant and a steadfast pillar of support for its members and the Singapore core.
In an interview with SeaVoices, SMOU General Secretary Mary Liew shares insights on five strategic focus areas that will be rolled out in 2025 and beyond as the union embarks on a transformative journey.
“The bottom line is we will intentionally continue to future-proof SMOU by staying agile and responsive and relevant,” says Sister Mary.
“In all that we do, we want our members to know that we have their backs always.”
At the heart of the union’s revitalization efforts lies the need to ensure its core values remain relevant and impacting.
SMOU has embraced the challenge of reshaping its six core values into a more concise and relatable set.
“The world is changing rapidly, and it’s crucial that our core values reflect the evolving needs and aspirations of our members,” explains Sister Mary. “By engaging our members, especially the younger generation, in this process, we aim to ensure the renewed values resonate with the diverse membership and serve as a strong foundation for its future endeavours.”
“The refreshed values distill the essence of who we are and what we stand for. The values ensure that we remain aligned with the union’s overarching mission and goals. We will embed the values in the union’s activities, initiatives and decision-making processes.”
The Wavelink Maritime Institute’s flagship TMTA (Deck/Engine) programme, formerly known as the Tripartite Nautical Training Award and Tripartite Engineering Training Award programme, is the cornerstone of SMOU and Wavelink’s efforts to develop quality maritime Singapore Core seafarers.
SMOU leaders had their ears to the ground when it came to refining the programme for greater efficiency and relevance.
“We observed that the programme’s previous duration had posed challenges in attracting and retaining participants. We’ve been working closely with our tripartite partners, including the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and industry stakeholders, to streamline the TMTA programme duration from 30 months to a minimum of 22 months,” says Sister Mary.
“This is a critical step in ensuring the TMTA programme remains attractive and accessible to aspiring seafarers.”
Securing adequate funding and providing a reasonable training allowance for participants have also been key priorities for SMOU. By strengthening industry partnerships, SMOU/WMI aims to facilitate seamless ship placements and provide TMTA cadets with the necessary hands-on training opportunities.
The renewed TMTA will also focus on participant selection and retention. The emphasis is on selecting the right candidates and implementing measures to improve cadet retention.
“The TMTA programme is not just about equipping our cadets with the necessary skills,” Sister Mary emphasizes. “The curriculum will align with the evolving needs of the maritime industry, including skills related to decarbonisation, alternative fuels, and technological advancements. Our cadets will be future ready.”
As SMOU looks to the future, engaging the younger generation has become a crucial focus to ensure a steady pipeline of talent for the sector. The union is exploring the idea of adopting a school and partnering with Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) to spark the interest of students to check out the exciting and fulfilling opportunities of a maritime career.
“In our outreach, we can feature the industry’s efforts in areas like decarbonisation, alternative fuels, and environmental protection. This can resonate with the younger generation’s growing interest in sustainability and greener future.”
For the cadets, the union will continue to establish a robust mentorship programme that pairs young aspiring officers with experienced industry leaders to inspire them to stay on course.
40% of the leaders in the ExCo now are below 45 years old. SMOU will continue to empower and support the union’s young members to take on leadership roles and actively engage with their peers.
SMOU’s long-serving members have weathered numerous storms and possess a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Recognising the immense value these experienced seafarers bring to the table, the union is implementing communications strategies to ensure their contributions are not lost.
“Our senior members have been the backbone of SMOU, and their stories and insights are invaluable,” Sister Mary acknowledges with gratitude and a thankful heart.
“We’re committed to capturing and harnessing the resilience, wisdom, and institutional knowledge of our senior members, ensuring their valuable contributions continue to shape the union’s future. We also foster a sense of unity and shared purpose when we do that.”
Singapore commemorates its 60th National Day in 2025. SMOU is set to incorporate National Day themes and symbols into its host of events and initiatives.
By doing so, SMOU showcases its contributions to the Singapore’s development by supporting seafarers, looking after the community welfare and fostering tripartite collaborations that have been instrumental in the nation’s success.
“We also get to show our appreciation to our nation. It is easy to take things for granted. It is crucial for us to foster a personal and corporate culture of gratefulness, humility and empathy lest we fall into the trap of having an entitled mindset that leads us down the slippery slope of negative thinking. By having the heart posture of gratefulness, we will be psychologically more equipped to navigate whatever challenges that come our way.”
In 2025, SMOU is poised to REFRESH its core values; REDESIGN its flagship programme, TMTA; REACH OUT to the young generation; RETAIN the RESILIENCE of its senior members; and REMEMBER the union’s pivotal role in Singapore’s development as the nation celebrates its 60th birthday.
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