The Youth Interest Group—a youth-led initiative supported by Young SMOU (YSMOU)—successfully held its inaugural event, an introduction to stand-up paddling, on 27 December 2024 at the NSRCC Sports Centre. Seventeen enthusiastic youths participated in the event, which aimed to strengthen bonds among young seafarers while building confidence and motivation. It also provided an excellent opportunity to connect active young seafarers who are not yet members with the union. 

Leading the event was Sister Nur Fadhiilah, a dedicated YSMOU committee member, who embraced the role of guiding her peers through this exciting new experience. The day began with a safety briefing and an introduction to basic paddling techniques conducted by a professional trainer. With safety tips in mind and paddles in hand, the youths ventured out to the sea to put their newly acquired skills to the test.