SMOU recognises that its seafaring officers are often out at sea and have little time with their families. With events such as the SMOU Annual Family Gathering, it promotes family togetherness made affordable for members and their families. In December 2020, SMOU held its Annual Family Gathering at the Singapore Zoo by extending admission tickets and food & beverage vouchers to more than 2,000 members and their families and shipping companies. Tickets were also extended to SMOU beneficiaries, NTUC Health Jurong West Nursing Home, and the union’s adopted child care centre, My First Skool Jalan Sultan.

Each family was given a family goodie bag consisting of necessities such as sanitisers, wipes, lunch boxes, and water bottles for the children. With safety measures in place, SMOU members and their families enjoyed their visit to the zoo. Here are some of their highlights.