SMOU and the Mission to Seafarers Singapore (MTSS) banded together to celebrate Labour Day with seafarers at the Jurong MTSS drop-in centre as well as vessels docked at the port.

The May Day celebration at the drop-in centre saw SMOU President Mr Rahim Jaffar recognising the hard work of seafarers worldwide as they perform their vital work, which is fundamental to the global economy. He said, “We acknowledge that you, our seafarers, had to embrace change and maintain a positive attitude when situations like the pandemic were out of your control, and we came here today to show our appreciation for your hard work and thank you for your resilience.”

A spread of local delights such as nasi kunyit (yellow rice), rendang chicken, garlic prawns, fried chicken, and an assortment of doughnuts and popcorn awaited the seafarers. Aside from food, each seafarer was gifted with an Oto Back Soother and Starhub data SIM card, which proved to be a hit. Seafarers at the centre immediately registered for their complimentary data SIM cards.

The May Day celebration was a great time of respite, rest, recreation, and reconnection as SMOU officials touched base with seafarers, listened to their concerns, shared stories, exchanged encouraging words, and joined them in a round of pool.