First Woman from S.E.A. in Itf Executive Board CONTENTS

August–September 2010

seaMICA (P) 037/10/2009 Bi-Monthly Publicationvoices of the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union and Wavelink Co-operative

First woman from S.E.A. in itf executive board CONTENTS

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3 SMOU ES Elected into ITF Executive Board 20 League for Golf Kakis 8 Celebrate as One United People 21 Family Connection/ Endearingly “Despicable” 9 National Day Message by NTUC Sec-Gen 22 Baking Workshop for Women Members Lim Swee Say 10 Transport and Logistics Unions’ Cluster Celebrate National Day WMI 12 A Heart to Heart talk with NTUC ASG 23 Training Calendar 25 Bunker Cargo Officers’ Course theIRfile

13 Life at Sea – No Walk in the Park lighthouse 14 e2i, SMOU and Shipping Companies Unite 16 SPF Benefits for SMOU CBA Vessels 26 Lighthouse Children’s Day Set Menu 18 AP Moller Welcomes SMOU Aboard Maersk Nautilus 27 Lighthouse October Promotion 19 Cadet’s Voyage Aboard Wallenius’ Morning Glory

Wavelink Building 75 Jellicoe Road #02-01 Singapore 208738 Tel : [65] 6396 0123 Fax : [65] 6339 5436 Website : www.smou.org.sg 21 Working hours: Mon to Fri : 9am to 6pm 19 Sat : 9am to 1pm

Lighthouse operating hours: Mon to Thur : 11am to 9pm Fri to Sat : 11am to 10pm

For enquiries on advertising in the SeaVoices, please call us. Tel : [65] 6390 1640 3 10 makewaves

SMOU ES elected into ITF Executive Board ITF 42nd Congress 2010, Mexico City, 5–12 August

Speaking to SeaVoices, Ms Liew declared, “I am humbled yet count myself privileged to be in a position where I can make a difference by being more than just a voice but the hand that can build up stronger unions in the region and beyond.” Every four years, the International At the conference, SMOU General Secretary, Mr Thomas Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), Tay was re-elected as 1st Vice Chair of the APSRC and a global union federation with 760 member of the ITF Fair Practices Committee (FPC) and the affiliated trade unions with 4.69 million FPC Steering Committee. members in 154 countries, holds its The ITF held its biggest ever and first congress in Latin congress to determine its policies for America, on 5 to 12 August 2010. Some 1,376 participants transport unions all over the world and representing 368 unions from 112 countries convened at the 42nd Congress held in Mexico City. Among them was to elect valuable contributing transport SMOU GS, Mr Thomas Tay, ES, Ms Mary Liew, IR Manager, union leaders who would drive ITF Mr Gwee Guo Duan and IR Officer, Mr Terence Tan. policies forward. Among the highlights of the congress was the first ever youth conference; a highly successful climate change conference and the election of a new President for the organisation.

t the ITF 42nd Congress, SMOU Executive Secretary, Mr Paddy Crumlin, national secretary of the Maritime Union AMs Mary Liew was elected a member of the ITF of Australia (MUA), was elected as the new ITF President. As Executive Board; affirming the union’s position as a voice President, he will hold the organisation to account between for the unions in the Asia Pacific region. Ms Mary Liew congresses, which set its policy for the following four years. continued as a member of the ITF Congress’ Credentials Crumlin is the twenty-second person to take on the post. Committee.

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GS Thomas Tay and ES Mary Liew extend their congratulations to the new chair of the Seafarers' section, Chairman, nd Well done to newly-elected ITF President, Mr Paddy Crumlin Mr David Heindel (2nd from left), 2 Vice- Chair, Mr Tomas Abrahamson (centre) and 1st Vice-Chair, Mr Yoji Fujisawa

The newly-elected ITF President said: “I’m excited to be SMOU congratulates ITF's President, SMOU's Executive able to take on this new role and play my part in moving the Secretary and our Singapore delegates on their elections. The work of the ITF, its hundreds of affiliated unions and their union would also like to salute the outgoing ITF President, millions of members forward through the implementation Mr Randall Howard for his leadership and contribution. of a comprehensive organising programme focused on trade union regeneration and revitalisation.”

Congratulations to the delegates from Asia/Pacific region who were elected into the ITF Executive Board:

Australia Paddy Crumlin Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) India C. A. Rajasridhar All India Railwaymen's Federation (AIRF) Indonesia Hanafi Rustandi Kesatuan Pelaut Indonesia (KPI) Japan Yoji Fujisawa All-Japan Seamen's Union (JSU) Japan Kouichi Watanabe General Federation of Private Railway & Bus Workers' Unions (SHITETSU-SOREN) Korea Dong-Sik Bang Federation of Korean Seafarers' Unions (FKSU) Philippines Johnny Oca Jr Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) Singapore Mary Liew Singapore Maritime Officers' Union (SMOU) Sri Lanka Leslie Devendra Sri Lanka Nidahas Sewaka Sangamaya (SLNSS)

David Cockroft re-elected as ITF General secretary

“There’s never been a bigger or more successful ITF flag of convenience campaign; Congress. These last two weeks have been filled with and the dockers’ port intelligence opportunities to come together, learn from each other, database scheme – the latest tool and forge new paths for the future,” said ITF General in the campaign against ports of Secretary David Cockroft. convenience.

This year’s 42nd Congress, held in Mexico City, focused on The congress concluded with union the theme Strong Unions – Sustainable Transport, where affiliates committing themselves ITF GS, Mr David Cockroft the policy document and strategy was debated in the anew to campaigning for fairer and section conferences, plenary sessions and workshops. safer work at sea, on land and in the With globalisation and new technology leading to a greater air. The presence of the ITF congress in Mexico City also integration of transport functions, unions must themselves helped ITF affiliates stand alongside Mexican comrades, deliver a coordinated response that cuts across the various and join them in their fight for decent conditions and for ITF sections. their jobs. It ended with a mass rally through the streets of Mexico City to call for trade union rights. Among the issues debated over were ITF’s commitment to the Year of the Seafarer 2010 and the fight against piracy; SMOU congratulates David Cockroft on his election as campaigns for safe rail and road; a new focus for the ITF’s ITF General-Secretary.

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SMOU GS, Mr Thomas Tay presents a token of appreciation to Mr Brian Orrell

Congratulations to Singapore delegates who were Congratulations to the newly elected officials from the elected: Seafarers’ Section:

Singapore Port Workers Union General Secretary, Mr Ameer Chair David Heindel (USA) Hamzah, as member of ITF Fair Practice Committee (FPC) 1st Vice-Chair Yoji Fujisawa (Japan) and ITF Dockers’ Section Committee. 2nd Vice-Chair Tomas Abrahamson (Sweden)

National Transport Workers Union Deputy ES, Mr Tan Boon SMOU would also like to extend their gratitude and Toy, as Vice-Chair of Asia/Pacific Region, ITF Road Transport appreciation to retired Chairman of the Seafarers' Section, Workers’ Section Steering Committee. Mr Brian Orrell and wish him all the best.

ITF Youth Here to Stay

Many may refer the young, representing the under 35’s, as the future of the labour movement. But, the ITF Youth want to be regarded as the present – here to stay, to develop the work of the ITF and to push the labour movement forward. In full agreement and supporting the work of young transport workers are two active members of SMOU – Mr Gwee Guo Duan, IR Manager and Mr Terence Tan, IR Officer.

Young ITF

“Young transport workers have a lot of power, energy and zeal. When you put like-minded individuals from all over the world together with a single purpose, you create a dynamic group that can move the labour movement forward.” Gwee Guo Duan, SMOU IR Manager and ITF Youth Representative

ITF Asia Pacific Regional Secretary Mr Mahendra Sharma, and ITF General Secretary, Mr David Cockroft together with our Young SMOU

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SMOU ES Speaks Up for Youth and Women ITF 42nd congress 2010, mexico city, 5–12 aug

On reaching out to the women in Singapore, the delegates applauded when Ms Liew cited an example of how Singapore’s National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) recognised the importance of women by proactively organising initiatives such as the Women "Back To Work with U" programme, to help train and equip women who wished to return to the workforce.

The programme, which was headed by the NTUC Womens’ Development Secretariat, has helped place over 6,000 women in their workplace and organise them as members of unions since 2008.

Ms Liew was pleased to hear that ITF had recommitted itself towards working with women transport workers to continue supporting women’s rights through strengthening collective bargaining; challenging occupational gender segregation; and fighting back against exploitation and discrimination.

Mr Remo Di Fiore with the SMOU delegation Ms Liew, on behalf of women transport workers, urged fellow comrades to fully support the women even as they adopt the next four years work programme. “I would like “We can't build Strong Unions without including the to thank Sister Alison McGarry, Nishi Kapahi together with Young and the Women.” our Chair, Diana Holland and the Women Committee – you have done a great job to support our Women workers. Let's In her opening statement at the ITF 42nd Congress Plenary continue the good work!” Session, Ms Mary Liew, SMOU Executive Secretary spoke on a subject which was close to her heart – the role of youth and women in the union movement.

“We need to groom and mentor our young to be leaders of tomorrow. We need to give opportunities for women to come forward to be trained, to develop their capacities and leadership skills and to be given equal opportunities to serve in our unions.”

Her firm belief in the role of youth and women within the union movement stems from a desire to see the global union movement grow in strength and sustainability.

Having had the opportunity to attend the opening and the closing of the Young Transport Workers Conference, Ms Liew applauded the commitment, efforts and hard work put in by young transport unionists led by Ingo Marowsky and his team. She urged for greater support in integrating the youth into every transport sector union. ES Mary Liew with fellow EB members, Ms Brigitta Paas and Ms Teri Mast

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SMOU Voices Concerns at ITF World Congress ITF 42nd congress 2010, mexico city, 5–12 aug

ITF Model Wage Scale Adopted Effective 2011

At the Congress, Mr Thomas Tay, SMOU General Secretary expressed his concern that this policy will impact the sovereignty of national flag and hence result in unfair competition between the Despite the objections different countries. from SMOU, the new ITF Not all of SMOU concerns fell on deaf ears as ITF agreed to a longer Model Wage Scale for term of four years for the full compliance of the ITF Model Wage national flags employing Scale to enable Singapore ship owners with collective agreement with National Unions to have more time to adjust to the new non-domiciled crew was wage scale. approved by the delegates nd attending the ITF 42 This new model wage scale will be the future basis for calculating wages for non-domiciled crews serving on national flag vessels. It is Congress in Mexico City in based on the ILO interpretation of minimum wage plus US$50 for an August 2010. Able Bodied seaman (AB), bringing the wage for an AB to US$1,007. Shipping companies with CBA will have to meet the minimum total crew cost of US$42,326 from 2011- 2014; based on a vessel manned with 23 crew.

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Celebrate As One United People

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong’s Welcome With Open Heart National Day Message spelled out “We will develop and invest in our people, but we also need messages of hope, optimism and to reinforce the Singapore team with talent and numbers achievements. Below we highlight from abroad. This is critical to us. Other countries are not only much larger than us, but have far deeper pools of excerpts of his message. talent than we have. We must make up for the shortage of Singaporean workers in our economy and the shortfall of babies in our population. Without an inflow, over time our economy and society will lose vibrancy, our citizens will enjoy fewer opportunities, and our shining red Economy Rebounded But … dot will grow dimmer.

”Our economy has rebounded strongly We cannot do without a from last year’s recession. GDP grew 17.9% proportion of foreign workers, or Y-on-Y in the first half of this year. Many jobs a continuing flow of PRs and new have been created, and unemployment is citizens. Let us welcome them low. Our workers can look forward to better with an open heart, help them to wages, more overtime and higher bonuses fit in and encourage those who this year. will become citizens to strike roots here. If we do this well, by Growth is likely to moderate in the second the next generation, their children half. Still, MTI forecasts growth for the year will be native Singaporeans. to be between 13 and 15%. This exceptional Remember, we ourselves are performance is the fruit of Singaporeans’ united response descendants of immigrants too. With new arrivals living and during the crisis. This enabled us to take full advantage of working harmoniously with those born here, we will keep improved global conditions. Singapore dynamic, cosmopolitan, and successful.”

We cannot expect to repeat this year’s sterling performance year after year, but we can continue to grow our economy with sustained effort. We must invest in our people, upgrade our infrastructure and improve our productivity. Then we On our 45th National Day, let us can take full advantage of opportunities in a booming Asia celebrate our achievements as one and prosper.” united people. We can be proud of what we have attained, but we Fruits of Growth must keep learning from others, “Our goal is for all Singaporeans to enjoy the fruits of improve in every area and strive growth. When Singapore prospers, you will benefit from hard to achieve our future goals. many government programmes: better designed HDB Tomorrow’s Singapore must be estates, higher quality schools and hospitals, more MRT lines and new places for recreation. But each one of us has better than today’s. to make the effort.”

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Celebrate As One United National Day Message People BY NTUC Sec-Gen Lim Swee Say

NTUC Secretary-General Lim Swee Say in his message They wondered if our shares how Singapore’s approach to the downturn workers are rewarded amazed tripartite representatives of other countries at the in the upturn. We said, International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva. Here are ‘Yes, otherwise, trust some excerpts: will be broken and we will not be able to “They were impressed by our strategy of ‘cutting costs to mobilise our workers save jobs’ against ‘cutting jobs to save costs’ adopted by to tighten their belts in many other countries. future downturns’.

They were impressed by the ‘V-shaped recovery’ of the Last but not least, they wondered how tripartism could Singapore economy, up from -9.4 per cent in the first be so uniquely effective in Singapore at a time when it quarter of 2009 to +15.5 per cent in the first quarter of is either breaking down or not functioning in many other 2010, and even more impressed by our ability to regain countries. We explained that when times are good, we work full employment so quickly, with our unemployment rate hard together to build up two types of capital – financial dropping from 3.3 per cent in the third quarter of 2009 to capital, by being one of the most pro-business economies 2.2 per cent by the first quarter of 2010, one of the lowest in the world; and social capital, by being one of the most in the world. pro-worker nations in the world. So, by the time we are hit by a global downturn, we already have in place the They wondered whether our government needed to necessary resources and a high level of trust among labour, borrow money to fund the Jobs Credit Scheme. We said, management and government to rally us to respond in unity. ‘No, it came from our reserves’. Singapore’s approach to tripartism is good for our workers. They wondered whether we will ever be able to replenish We avoided massive retrenchments and prevented a rapid the $4.5 billion drawn from our reserves since many rise in unemployment. It is also good for our businesses. countries are running into growing budget deficits and We preserved our economic capacity and upgraded our huge government debts. We said, ‘Yes, perhaps over two economic capability to grow again in a global recovery. to three years. Because we make sure that every dollar is put to good use and every extra dollar is put back into our Looking ahead, the tripartite partners strive to do even reserves’. better as we ride the global recovery in 2010 and beyond.

They wondered how we were able to convince our workers We strive to sustain our economic growth by becoming a to accept wage freezes and even wage cuts without protests “Cheaper Better Faster” economy, and helping our workers or strikes. We shared with them our flexible wage system, to become more productive, capable and adaptable. This is and how our national leaders and corporate management so that our businesses can be profitable and our workers led by example by taking deeper wage cuts first. can earn better wages over the next ten years.

They wondered how we managed to keep the trust and We will also strive for inclusive growth to create job preserve unity during a downturn as severe as this. We told opportunities for everyone. This is so that everyone who is them that to wait until there is a downturn to build trust is willing to learn and willing to work will be able to take on a too late. We believe in building trust during good times so meaningful job. that we can stay united during bad times. Together, let us live our dreams as They wondered if we will continue with the Jobs Credit Scheme in 2010 and beyond. We said, ‘No, because our One Singapore, lift our productivity as businesses have to stay competitive without government One Workforce, and fly our flag as subsidies. We also need to save our surpluses and get ready One People.” for the next global downturn’.

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Transport and Logistics Unions’ Cluster Celebrate National Day Seletar Airport set for Major Facelift

Although the NTUC Transport and Logistics Cluster NDOC was celebrated on 19 August – a week after National Day, everyone was still in buoyant spirits as SMOU officials and TNTA cadets adjourned from One Marina Boulevard to Seletar Airport.

Together with 83 other union leaders from the transport and logistics sectors, the group joined in the singing of the national anthem and reciting of the national pledge. Unionists were given clappers and flags to liven up the atmosphere as they welcomed Guest- of-honour, Minister for Transport and Second Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr Minister Raymond Lim leading the Transport Cluster in reciting the Singapore Pledge Raymond Lim. NTUC Assistant Secretary-General Mr aviation centre opens in 2018. For many Seng Han Thong, and NTUC Transport of the unionists, it was their first time and Logistics Cluster Secretary and visiting the fast-developing Seletar National Transport Workers’ Union Aerospace Park. (NTWU) General Secretary Mr Fang Chin Poh were there as well to grace In his message, Mr Raymond Lim the occasion. urged firms to continue improving productivity by citing the example SMOU President, Capt Robin Foo of skills improvements and better received the certificate of participation prospects workers enjoyed as a result from Minister Raymond Lim and of PSA Corporation’s cooperation with unionists were invited to tour the the Singapore Port Workers Union Fokker Services Asia Company to (SPWU). learn about helicopter manufacturer Eurocopter's repair, maintenance and Going forward, he said that the pilot training facility. transport industry can expect more challenges as Singapore works to After much photo-taking of pre-World enhance its competitiveness as an air War II buildings and hangars, a bus tour hub, develop an integrated commuter- around Seletar Airport conducted by Mr centric public transport system Seng explained how 10,000 high-value and become a leading international Minister of Transport, Mr Raymond Lim jobs will be created when the modern maritime centre.

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Transport and Logistics Unions’ Cluster Celebrate National Day Seletar Airport set for Major Facelift

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A Heart to Heart Talk with NTUC ASG

She listened and shared her views with SMOU, as a friend, motivator, leader, fellow unionist. In her visit to SMOU on 27 July 2010, Mrs Josephine Teo, Member of Parliament, Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC and Assistant Secretary-General, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) connected well with SMOU executive committee leaders on issues close to their heart.

SMOU EXCO sharing issues from the ground

During the dialogue session, SMOU Exco members higlighted that the global shortage of seafaring officers is estimated to climb to some 27,000 by 2015. Issues that were raised included the shortage problem of seafarers in Singapore and the declining number of young Singaporeans passionate enough to face the challenges in the maritime industry.

Mrs Teo commended SMOU for spearheading initiatives such as the Tripartite Nautical Training Award (TNTA) programme. The $2.4 million funded programme was launched in October 2009, as a joint collaboration by SMOU, ASG Josephine Teo sharing a moment of laughter with SMOU EXCO NTUC e2i (Employment and Employability Institute), Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) and supported by the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), to encourage Singaporeans to join the maritime sector and pursue promising careers sailing onboard international vessels as seafaring officers.

This forward thinking by SMOU caught the attention of Mrs Teo, who saw how the Union was able to pull all the resources and bring together the industry players to make the programme happen. She affirmed that the move taken by SMOU was a step in the right direction in dealing with the shortage of local seafaring officers.

The dialogue concluded with the agreement that there should be more support rendered to the employment of Singaporeans as well as encouraging the young to choose ASG Josephine Teo listening intently to concerns from SMOU EXCO seafaring as a career.

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Life at Sea – No Walk in the Park SMTF-sponsored Graduate shares his experience

SeaVoices: TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAMILY and where you are from? He came to Singapore in search of a better life for his family. Now, after Laixing: I come from Shandong Province in China. Both my father and mother who are graduating in May with a Diploma in farmers, are 51 years old. They look much Nautical Studies offered by the Singapore older because they are always working under Maritime Academy (SMA) at the Singapore the sun. Farming is tough work. Polytechnic, Mr Du Lai Xing, 24, shares They work hard to provide a better life for with SeaVoices his thoughts on the my elder brother and me so that we don’t Singapore Maritime Training Fund have to be farmers as well. The good (SMTF) sponsorship and life news is that we are both doing well. So it sets our parents’ minds at ease. My as a seafarer. brother, who is four years older than me, just graduated and now works in Qing Dao as a sales manager.

SeaVoices: Why did you choose seafaring With this sponsorship, I could concentrate on my studies as a career? and need not worry about paying my school and exam fees. I am financially independent and don’t have to worry about Laixing: Although it isn’t easy, seafaring is a very good going hungry. career. When I become a captain or master, I will have enough sea and management experiences to find a good SeaVoices: Could you share with us your shore job when I retire from sailing. seafaring experiences during the shipboard phase? SeaVoices: So how did you hear about the SMTF Sponsorship? Laixing: I gained much experience at sea. It was not merely about possessing ship knowledge, but knowing how to Laixing: My Diploma in Nautical Studies consists of sea respect our seniors and co-workers, care for each other, phase in year 2, and I was very fortunate to be shortlisted and be a team player. by Neptune Shipmanagement Services Pte Ltd to cover my sea phase. Shortly after, I was elated and honoured to Sea life is not easy, especially when one encounters bad know that SMTF has selected me for the full sponsorship weather, becomes seasick or homesick. I dread seasickness for my Diploma course with SMA. Looking back, I am so the most – the vomiting, headaches, and loss of appetite. much indebted to SMTF for being my sponsor. We have to take it all in our stride.

SeaVoices: How has the SMTF sponsorship This is why relationships onboard ships are so important. helped you? We must always consider safety first, then work as a team, and care for each other. Laixing: The cost of living in Singapore is very high and I don't earn any income, so I had no choice but to rely on I enjoy going to different places, seeing different people my parents for financial support at first. My parents are not and telling my family and friends about the countries and rich. My brother had just graduated, and could not afford cultures I’ve visited. to support me very much. Had I converted our combined earnings in renminbi to Singapore dollars, they would not be able to afford my education.

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e2i, SMOU and Shipping Companies Unite

Dialogue Panel (L–R) Mr Bernard Song, Mr Thomas Tay and Mr Ang Hin Kee

Gaining recognition from major In order for the shipping community to fully exploit the benefits of this initiative, shipping and Collective Agreement industry players, the first two batches (CA) companies were invited to learn about the programme of the Tripartite Nautical Training Award and encouraged to offer their ardent support for the (TNTA) programme have seen some programme’s third batch of potential recruits.

30 Singaporean cadets trained and the Jointly organised by e2i and SMOU, the dialogue session pioneer cohort of 19 cadets graduating at the e2i building on 30 July saw 30 representatives from companies including Trademar Pte Ltd, Wallenius Marine from their pre-sea training phase on Singapore Pte Ltd, Neptune Shipmanagement Services Pte 2 July 2010 at Orchard Hotel. Ltd, and NYK Shipmanagement Pte Ltd participating in the dialogue.

A welcome address by Mr Thomas Tay, General Secretary of SMOU, was followed by a brief on the TNTA initiative by e2i which included details on TNTA programme’s Pre-Sea Nautical Training and syllabus as well as progress updates on the first and second batches of cadets by Wavelink Institute.

Mr Tay, Mr Ang Hin Kee, CEO of e2i (Employment and Employability Institute) and Mr Bernard Song, General Manager of Wavelink Institute rounded up the trio of panellists for the dialogue session.

Issues raised included recruitment strategies; giving Singaporeans opportunities to pursue seafaring careers by urging shipping companies to provide training berths; exploring the feasibility Shipping company representatives at the dialogue of encouraging women to join the programme as

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e2i, SMOU and Shipping Companies Unite

well as merit-based incentive schemes to encourage cadets to excel at company and industrial levels.

Indeed, the successful launch of the TNTA has been recognised as an important milestone in the training of Singaporean seafarers and a small step in the direction of addressing the global shortage of seafaring officers. The Singapore Workforce Development Agency (WDA) and SMOU have jointly invested S$2.4 million into training young Singaporeans as deck officers for Singapore’s shipping industry, of which successful graduates will obtain COC Class 3 Deck Officer qualifications from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). Employers listening to the process of the cadet selection

Welcome Address by SMOU General-Secretary Thomas Tay

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SPF Benefits for SMOU CBA Vessels

When I had to pay my childrens’ tuition fees, the fund saw them through the beginning of the school year and during the economic crisis. I highly encourage more seafarers to board Singaporean Flag Vessels and am extremely grateful to Sandigan Ship Services Incorporated, Dalisay Shipping Corporation and SMOU. Thank you! – Chief Officer Mr Danilo D Juanillo, Celeste Holdings

My advice to other seafarers would be to think of the future, become members of SMOU, save money and plan in advance for their retirement. The SPF has provided additional capital for my small family business which was set up in Chief Officer Juanillo with his family preparation for my retirement. This has really helped my family especially during turbulent times in the Philippines. Apart from my company and SMOU, I would also like to extend my personal thanks to Ms Over 26,000 members are now Rose Boon from the Funds Administration Division in SMOU for her quick attention. – Mr Gones, Carlos Jr covered by the Seafarers Provident Calap, Celeste Holdings Fund (SPF) – a savings scheme set up by SMOU for seafarers onboard SMOU Collective Bargaining Agreements SPF is a great aid and relief to seafarers especially in (CBA) ships to enhance the welfare of times of necessity for financial assistance. The scheme is very systematic and orderly. During coffee time on seafarers upon their retirement. 11 Aug 2009, we assembled the crew to conduct a safety meeting at the crew’s mess hall. I was glad to With 3,973 new members in the first announce there and then, the receipt of my provident fund from SMOU and assured our crew that they half of 2010 alone, the SPF has seen would be receiving theirs as well. – Mr Celso R De its largest number of sign-ups to date, Leon Jr, Master Mariner M/V Pine Wave surpassing the total number of new member sign-ups in 2009. My family and I are very thankful that my SPF savings account withdrawal has been successfully remitted Let’s hear what some of our members and deposited to the said bank account here in the have to say about how the SPF has Philippines. Through your (SMOU’s) benevolent assistance and kind understanding, the said amount benefitted them. has been a really great help to me with regard to my financial needs. I can now make use of it for my seminar and training of other courses required by our Principal before going back onboard ship. Mabuhay!

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SPF Benefits for SMOU SPF Benefits for SMOU CBA Vessels CBA Vessels

SMOU and Staff for helping me regain hope and assisting me during my time of strife. iSPF – SPF benefits at the click – Capt Saturnino H Labitad Jr, Crystal Water of a mouse

Although my SPF is only a Members can now go online to check their SPF modest amount, I’m very balances and perform transactions anytime and thankful to have additional anywhere – simply by logging in at www.ispf.org.sg. capital for my small business in Manila, which I immediately Or drop by the SMOU One Stop Service Centre sent to my wife. I strongly urge seafarers not to miss out on Opening Hours: joining a union such as SMOU Mondays to Fridays 9am – 6pm and would like to thank my Saturdays 9am – 1pm previous company – Monsoon Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays Maritime Services Inc Singapore and the Manila office for their support in arranging my vessel through ASP Email: [email protected] Shipmanagement to join SMOU. www.smou.org.sg

SMOU is already an established union. Your office, nice and accommodating service and publications are all proof of this. Thank you very much SMOU! – S/E Timothy B Guevara, Monsoon Maritime Services

A member being orientated on the iSPF (right)

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AP Moller Welcomes SMOU aBoard Maersk Nautilus

With the benefits of the Seafarers’ Medical Scheme (SMS), Seafarers’ Provident Fund (SPF) and its internet portal – the iSPF, Capt Subramaniam of AP Moller’s Maersk Nautilus had nothing but praise for SMOU’s welfare shown to its members.

Although crew members were busy with bunkering, stores and provisions for the long voyage to Fujairah port in UAE, they welcomed the visitors with open arms on the evening of 18 August at Anchorage.

Overall conditions aboard the Maersk Nautilus were exemplary and it was indeed assuring to see that the crew were all content with the accommodation, recreational activities and food and water onboard the tanker.

Together with a set of safety posters, 13 notebooks, a copy of SeaVoices and 1 SMOU Aft to Fore book, all officers received copies of the SPF brochure to help them understand the scheme better and how to take full advantage of its benefits.

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Cadet’s Voyage aboard Wallenius’ Morning Glory

SMOU President, Capt Robin Foo and As part of her shipboard training phase, Cadet Nur Afny embarked with the crew aboard the car carrier vessel to SMOU Member, Mohamed Hanifa deliver used cars to Shanghai’s recycle yard from Australia. Mydin, visited the Wallenius Vessel She had managed to join the vessel on a stopover at Anchorage in Singapore and Wallenius Marine has been Morning Glory on 13 August 2010. most helpful and supportive of her orientation and helping her adapt and ease in to life at sea.

All crew members including Cadet Nur Afny have been transferred to vessel TOSCA on 28 August.

SMOU would like to thank Wallenius Marine Capt Lim Swee Aun and Capt San Win for their tremendous help and keen support and wish Cadet Nur Afny the very best in her time with Wallenius Marine.

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League for Golf Kakis Gold Collar Members network over game of golf

Apart from the occasional drizzle, the skies were friendly enough as 60 gold collar members and guests networked on 3 August at Orchid Country Club over a game of 18 holes.

Each golfer received goodie bags comprising packs of golf balls, golf hats, SMOU pens and ESPRIT handy umbrellas.

After a hard fought game, golfers were treated to a sumptuous buffet spread with specialty laksa amid free flow of beer and soft drinks.

And as always, which competitive game would be complete without prizes?

Attractive tournament and novelty prizes were awarded as all golfers returned home with fabulous lucky draw prizes in tow.

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Family Connection National Day Celebration 2010

It was an early national day celebration for some 150 members and their family members who gathered on the 31 July at the Megu Event Hall @ Singapore Flyer.

For the first time, the Family Connection was held at the venue which was ideal for catching the spectacular views of the National Day Parade Preview fireworks display.

The ambience and location of the event hall ,which is in close proximity to the Marina Bay Sands, CBD skyscrapers, Singapore Flyer and NDP Preview, made the night that much more special.

Dinner was an international buffet spread with free flow of soft drinks while POOF! The Magical Clown, awed the children by twisting balloons into exciting shapes for them to bring home as gifts.

Endearingly ‘’Despicable’’

Some 600 SMOU members and their families including 200 children and family members from Kampong Kapor Family Service Centre and TOUCH Community Services were invited to a special screening on 11 July of the animated movie ‘Despicable Me’ featuring the voice of funny man Steve Carrell as Gru – an evil villain bent on pulling off the biggest heist in history – stealing the moon! That is until he encounters three little orphan girls.

SMOU members and their families had a ball of a time at Vivocity. Here's all the action captured in pictures:

seavoices newsletter aug sep 2010 21 membuzz

Baking Workshop for Women Members

They were workshops like no other as the smell of Molten Chocolate Cake and Tiramisu together with Mango Pomelo Mousse Cake and Chocolate Brownies with Walnut & Pecan were enough to make anyone salivate with shameless desire.

Introducing the baking workshops organised by the NTUC – Women's Development Secretariat (WDS) for NTUC women members – where baking is appreciated as a pastry art form.

To provide women members opportunities to learn more baking recipes, chefs from the Creative Culinaire Cooking and Baking School at Eng Hoon Street and Phoon Huat Baking Skills Development Centre demonstrated the finer points of cake making over two sessions on 31 July on 6 August.

With ingredients and equipment supplied by the schools, the chefs began by explaining the steps, introducing the ingredients and performing demonstrations.

After the demos, it was time for the ladies to put their cordon bleu baking skills to work as they set about in teams of two to three bringing their creations to life.

They were rewarded for their hard efforts at the end of the day with deliciously self made, aromatic cakes for their family members.

Baking is a personal interest to me. I used to bake marble cake, cupcakes and muffins for my boys. The workshop was very hands-on and the chef was clear with his instructions – making the session easy to follow and understand. I’m glad to have added another cake recipe to my repertoire and hope that more of such workshops can be organised. A future session on bread making, perhaps? – Ms Lilian Ong, member of SMOU

SMOU has been superb in keeping members informed and updated on "What's On?" I got to know of the workshops from the email SMOU sent me. My family commented that the end product from the workshops were really good. Hopefully, now without the instructor’s help I can reproduce the same quality and taste at home! – Ms Loh Yin, member of SMOU Ms Lilian Ong and Ms Loh Yin with their work of art

seavoices newsletter 22 aug sep 2010 WMI

Training Calendar (September–November 2010)

MARINE COURSES (including 7% GST) Course Title Date Duration Course Fee Course Title Date Duration Course Fee MPA Mandatory Courses Pilotage Exemption (Large On Demand 5 hrs $2,675.00 Experienced Tug Master On Demand 1.5 hrs $460.10 Vessel) Course & Assessment (Refresher) Pilotage Exemption (Large On Demand 2.5 hrs $1,401.70 Passenger Ferry Safety (New)** On Demand 1 Day $294.25 Vessel) Renewal Assessment Pilotage Exemption On Demand 1 Day $383.06 Passenger Ferry Safety On Demand 4 hrs $230.05 (Small Vessel) New** (Refresher) Pilotage Exemption On Demand 3 hrs $333.80 Port Limit Special Grade On Demand 3 Days $449.40 (Small Vessel) Refresher (Deck Officer)** Port Limit Tanker Master On Demand 1.5 Days $591.70 Bunker Surveying Course** On Demand 2 Days $321.00 (New)** Port Limit Tanker Master On Demand 4 hrs $255.70 Oil Spill Control** On Demand 1 Day $171.20 (Refresher) Tug Master (New) On Demand 3 hrs $837.80

Maritime Courses Maritime Resource 13–15 Sep 3 Days $909.50 IMO Model Course 3.19 14–15 Sep 2 Days $642.00 Management Course (MRM) 8–10 Nov (Ship Security Officer)** 1–2 Nov

Maritime Resource & Bridge 13–17 Sep 5 Days $1,605.00 IMO Model Course 3.20 14–16 Sep 3 Days $963.00 Team Management Course 8–12 Nov (Company Security Officer)** 1–3 Nov

IMO Model Course 1.27 18–22 Oct 5 Days $1,284.00 IMO Model Course 3.21 12–14 Oct 3 Days $963.00 (Operational Use of ECDIS) (Port Facility Security Officer) **

Senior Officers Leadership 20–22 Sep 3 Days $2,942.50 ISM & ISPS Internal Auditor 21–23 Sep 3 Days $1,284.00 Assessment Programme 22–24 Nov 9–11 Nov (SOLAP)

IMO Model Course 1.22 15–17 Sep 3 Days $1.070.00 ISM Internal Auditor 21–22 Sep 2 Days $695.50 (Ship Simulator and Bridge 10–12 Nov 9–10 Nov Teamwork)

Shiphandling Course 15–17 Sep 3 Days $1,284.00 ISPS Internal Auditor 22–23 Sep 2 Days $856.00 10–12 Nov 10–11 Nov

Bunker Cargo Officer Course Oct Full Time $2,675.00 Powered Pleasure Craft Driving On Demand 2 Days $321.00 Part Time Licence (PPCDL)

Maritime Introductory Courses Familiarisation of 24–25 Nov 2 Days $749.00 Familiarisation with Shipping 29 Oct 1 Day 272.85 IMO Convention Terms & Maritime Jargon

Familiarisation on Operational 18–19 Oct 2 Days $535.00 Maritime Labour Convention, On Demand 1 Day $280.00 Use of ECDIS 2006 Awareness Programme

Safety Culture for Optimum 4 Nov 1 Day $272.85 Designated Person Ashore 27–28 Oct 2 Day $749.00 Safety Performance (DPA) Training Course

Ship Security Awareness 22 Sep 1 Day $171.20 Introduction to Risk 6 Sep 1 Day $272.85 Course 26 Nov Management On demand

Course Fees inclusive of 7% GST ** Course approved for SPUR Subsidy Visit us at: www.wavelink.com.sg/wmi

For registration or enquiries, please contact: For MPA Mandatory Courses, please contact Ms Christina Tey Mr Tan Chee Peng Mr Kevin Loh Ms Rebecca Gomes Tel: (65) 6390 1648 Tel: (65) 6390 1651 Tel: (65) 6874 7782 Tel:(65) 6874 7782 Fax: (65) 6295 1121 Fax: (65) 6295 1121 Fax: (65) 6874 7666 Fax: (65) 6874 7666 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

seavoices newsletter aug sep 2010 23 OUR VISION The Number One Professional, Dynamic and Growing Organisation For The Maritime Community And Beyond.

On 4 June 2010 pm, 19 TNTA deck cadets together with four SMOU / WMI trainers and staff embarked on a famous tour of the MV Doulos.

Subsidiary Companies and Business Divisions

http://www.wavelink.com.sg/ WMI

Bunker Cargo Officers’ Course

The International Bunker Industry Association (IBIA) has awarded Certificates of Competency to the first graduates of its Professional Training Programme for Bunker Cargo Officers.

Chen Chao, Mohamed Riszuan and Shahrizal Mohamad were presented with their certificates by IBIA Chief Executive Ian Adams at the IBIA Asia Forum in Singapore on 2 July 2010. The graduates are the first to successfully complete the three-month Bunker

Cargo Officer Course, which is approved by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA).

The course, which was jointly developed by IBIA’s Asia Branch, Wavelink Maritime International (WMI) and bunker industry stakeholders in consultation with the MPA, aims to raise professionalism through recognised industry qualifications.

Mr Simon Neo, IBIA Asia Branch Executive Committee Chairman, adds, “Our graduates should be very proud to be the first to complete the Bunker Cargo Officers’ Course. IBIA is delighted that it has paved the way for standards of certification in the bunker industry and we hope to develop this programme for other industry professionals in the future. The sky’s the limit.”

Mr Kwok Fook Sing, WMI Manager who is one of the trainers for this course, says, “Besides professional bench-marking, it also enhances the employability of people interested in this specialised field. This course is SPUR Approved and therefore, funding is available to eligible participants.”

seavoices newsletter aug sep 2010 25 Dear Children, We’ve prepared a special kids’ menu from 1– 9 October – just for YOU! Come savour our ice-cream, burgers, chips and chops with your parents! There’s never been a better time to be a kid.

From all of us at Lighthouse Bistro, it’s our very own way of saying

$7+ CHILDREN’S DAY SET MENU

Appetiser * Soup of the Day * Potato Salad with Black Raisins

Main Course * Mini Ham & Cheese Burger, garnish with Baked Beans & Chips * Shell Pasta with Cocktail Sausage in Tomato Sauce * Fish & Chips with Baked Beans & Chips * Grilled Chicken Chops with Baked Beans & Chips

Desserts * Mini Brownie with Vanilla Ice-cream & Strawberry * Oreo with Chocolate Ice-cream & Love Letters * Choose from our selection of Appetisers, Main Courses and Desserts seavoices newsletter aug sep 2010 27 When: 13 October 2010, Wednesday Venue: Keppel Club

“Hole-In-One Prize: Mercedes-Benz C-Class C190 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY” th

8Singapore Maritime Training Fund (SMTF) Fund Raising Golf 2010 Guest-of-Honour

Mr Lam Yi Young, Chief Executive of Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore Contribute towards grooming future leaders of the Maritime Industry!

The SMTF is a fund that establishes a pool of quality seafarers who will serve on board Singapore Flag ships, and contributes to the present and future training needs of officers serving on board SMOU Collective Bargaining Agreement vessels.

For more information, contact Jasmine Khoo at (+65) 6390 1640 or email [email protected]