On 7 May 2025, the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU) hosted a Kopi Talk session with local seafarers currently undergoing their Certificate of Competency (CoC) courses at the Singapore Maritime Academy (SMA). The event brought together cadets pursuing their CoC Class 3 and officers taking their CoC Class 2/1 preparatory course. 

The outreach session aimed to connect with local seafarers and to create awareness of how the union supports the seafarers. Beyond workplace representation and grievance handling, membership privileges also include a wide range of educational, social and welfare benefits. 

Young SMOU Chairman, Brother Dominic shared with attendees on their rights as seafarers, and emphasised the Union’s commitment to supporting them in employment-related matters. He also highlighted key member benefits, including educational subsidies for self-paying seafaring members who are pursuing STCW short courses and the CoC Class 2/1 preparatory course. These benefits not only strengthen support in employment matters but also help support the education and professional development  of seafarers.