may day hurray

MICA (P) 165/11/2010

seavoicesBi-Monthly Publication of the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union and Wavelink Co-operative

June 2011 – July 2011

MAY DAY HURRAY

CONTENTS

makewaves

3 Singapore – The First Asian Country

To Ratify MLC 2006

4 Labour MPs Put Up A Good Fight

6 May Day Hurray

8 A Remarkable 50 years

10 Forging Networks; Broadening Horizons

12 A Hit with the Masses

theIRfile

13 Enhancing Training Through Bipartism

14 CadetsPlus Addresses Rising Demands

16 Higher Wages Across the Board

18 SMOU - Thome Seal CA

19 SMOU Plays Host for Study Trip

19 Union Counterparts Unite

20 IR CURE in Action

membuzz

22 Celebrating SMOU’s 60th Anniversary

24 Our Members, Our Future

26 Coming Soon!

WMI

27 Training Calendar

29 CadetsPlus 2011 Adds Piracy to Its Training

Programme

30 Wine while You Dine

4

29

24

22

Wavelink Building 75 Jellicoe Road #02-01 Singapore 208738

Tel : [65] 6396 0123 Fax : [65] 6339 5436 Website : www.smou.org.sg

Working hours:

Mon to Fri : 9am to 6pm 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

makewaves

june july 2011

seav o i c e s newsletter 3

Singapore – The First Asian Country To Ratify MLC 2006

It’s official. Singapore has ratified the

International Labour Organisation's (ILO)

Maritime Labour Convention, making it

the 13th ILO member state and first Asian

country to do so.

Over the past few years, the tripartite workgroup

consisting members from the Singapore Maritime

Officers’ Union (SMOU), Singapore Organisation of

Seamen (SOS), Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

(MPA), Singapore Shipping Association (SSA), Ministry

of Manpower (MOM) and the maritime industry has held

extensive discussions on Singapore's response to the

ratification and implementation of the Maritime Labour

Convention (MLC).

With the ratification of the MLC, Singapore will now begin

taking definite steps necessary to effect legislative changes

in alignment with MLC provisions, minimum standards

and fair working conditions for seafarers worldwide.

Senior Parliamentary Secretary of Ministry of Manpower,

Mr Hawazi Daipi made the announcement on 14 June 2011

during his speech at the International Labour Conference

in Geneva, Switzerland.

He said the ratification is a significant step for Singapore

signalling a commitment to apply provisions in the

Convention to Singapore-flagged ships for decent work for

seafarers. He also added that the Ministry of Manpower

will be signing a partnership agreement with the ILO to

develop and implement a joint co-operation programme in

progressive labour and workplace practices in the ASEAN

region. The agreement will help strengthen co-operation

between Singapore and the ILO in enhancing human

resource management and development in the region.

At the time of the press release, SMOU Executive Secretary

Ms Mary Liew announced Singapore’s ratification of the

MLC at the International Transport Workers’ Federation

(ITF) Seafarer’s Section meeting at Buenos Aires to great

applause by the delegates of the ITF. Ranked among the

world’s top 10 largest ship registries and regarded as a

reputable flag state in the world, renowned for its quality

fleet, and backed by an efficient maritime administration,

Singapore is one of the busiest ports in the world.

“This is something that we have been working hard towards. The first requirement of covering 33 per cent of the world gross tonnage has already been achieved. So Singapore’s ratification is definitely a major boost and a step closer to realising the second requirement of reaching 30 ratifications. We look forward to its enforcement for the benefit of seafarers”.- Ms Mary Liew, SMOU Executive Secretary

“This is a significant step for Singapore, as we commit to applying the Convention’s provisions to Singapore-registered ships and ships that call at our ports, as well as to achieve decent working conditions for seafarers. As a responsible flag state, Singapore had actively participated in the discussions that led to the adoption of this important Convention, which consolidates and updates over 60 ILO Conventions and Recommendations. We look forward to it entering into force in due course.” - Mr Loh Khum Yean, Permanent Secretary of Singapore’s Ministry of Manpower in submitting the instrument of ratification to the ILO

“Seafarers play a critical role in enabling shipping, world trade and the world’s economy. As a responsible maritime nation, Singapore is committed to enhancing and looking after the wellbeing of seafarers. The ratification of MLC is part of this commitment.”- Mr Lam Yi Young, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

“The ratification of the MLC, 2006, by Singapore, the world’s largest port State and one of the top ten flag States, sends a powerful signal to the global maritime community. Singapore is the first country of the Asian continent to have accepted the Seafarers’ Bill of Rights, and we all know how vital and important this continent is for maritime trade and the global economy. This strong expression of leadership by Singapore sends the right message to other countries to come on board to enable the worlds’ seafarers to benefit from this Bill of Rights and ship owners from a level-playing field.”- Ms Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry, ILO Director of International Labour Standards, upon receiving the instrument of ratification

june july 2011


makewaves

LAbOUR MPS PUT UP A GOOD FiGHT

NTUC Labour Members of Parliament (MPs) have always served as keen voices - championing the cause of workers on numerous platforms unceasingly.

Working hand-in-hand with the Labour MPs, unions and workers

have long been privileged beneficiaries of their dedicated

advocacy.

Recently, SMOU supported its labour MPs in the recent 12th

General Elections on 7 May 2011 where 12 out of 14 PAP Labour

MP Candidates won seats in parliament.

Among the 12 were NTUC Secretary-General Mr Lim Swee Say,

former Deputy Secretary-General Madam Halimah Yacob, Deputy

Secretary-General Mr Heng Chee How, former NTUC Assistant

Secretary-General Mrs Josephine Teo and Assistant Secretary-

General Mr Seng Han Tong.

Mr Lim expresses

his gratitude to the

residents of East

Coast GRC and his

friends from the

Labour Movement

In addition to fulfilling their roles as newly elected MPs, with the

announcement of the new Cabinet on 21 May 2011, Mdm Halimah Yacob

and Mrs Josephine Teo will be relinquishing their secretary-general roles in

NTUC to focus on their responsibilities as Ministers of State in the Ministry of

Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) and Ministry of Finance

and Ministry of Transport respectively.

Although both will be sorely missed by all

in the Labour Movement, SMOU would

like to congratulate Mdm Halimah and Mrs

Josephine Teo on their new appointments

and thank them for their contributions and

help to SMOU over the years.

Capt Robin Foo

congratulating a jubilant

labour MP Mdm Halimah

Yacob from Jurong GRC at

the Jurong West Stadium

june july 2011


makewaves

Though labour MP candidates Mr Ong Ye Kung and

Mr Desmond Choo were not elected, they have

recommitted themselves to continuing their good

work in the Labour Movement. The reshuffle will

see e2i Chairman and NTUC Assistant Secretary-

General Mr Ong Ye Kung promoted to Deputy

Secretary-General; and NTUC Industrial Relations

Department (IRD) Director Ms Cham Hui Fong

assume the Assistant Secretary-General position.

While NTUC Youth Development Unit Deputy

Director, Mr Desmond Choo will assist Ms Cham

in the NTUC IRD as its Deputy Director.

SMOU congratulates all PAP Labour MP Candidates on their new appointments:

SMOU ES Ms Mary Liew congratulates and garlands

former NTUC Assistant Secretary-General and Bishan-

Toa Payoh GRC MP Mrs Josephine Teo

NTUC Deputy Secretary-General and present MP for Whampoa

SMC Heng Chee How has been appointed Senior Minister of

State in the Prime Minister’s Office; while SMOU Advisor and

MP for Yuhua SMC Ms Grace Fu is the current Senior Minister

of State for Information, Communications and the Arts, and the

Environment and Water Resources.

Congratulating

SMOU Advisor

Ms Grace Fu

from Yuhua

SMC is SMOU

President Capt

Robin Foo

NTUC Deputy Secretary-General and labour candidate

Ong Ye Kung thanks supporters after the elections

LABOUR MP DESIGNATION CONSTITUENCY

Lim Swee Say NTUC Secretary-General East Coast GRC

Heng Chee How NTUC Deputy Secretary-General Whampoa SMC

Halimah Yacob Former NTUC Deputy Secretary-General and current Minister of State Jurong GRC

Josephine Teo Former NTUC Assistant Secretary-General and current Minister of State, Finance

and Transport

Bishan-Toa Payoh

GRC

Seng Han Thong NTUC Assistant Secretary-General Ang Mo Kio GRC

Yeo Guat Kwang NTUC Alignment Director (All Nationalities, Quality Worklife) Ang Mo Kio GRC

Zainudin Nordin NTUC Alignment Director (No Collar, Care and Share) Bishan-Toa Payoh

GRC

Ang Hin Kee NTUC’s e2i (Employment & Employability Institute) Chief Executive Officer Ang Mo Kio GRC

Seah Kian Peng NTUC FairPrice Co-operative Limited Chief Executive Officer (Singapore) Marine Parade GRC

Zainal Sapari NTUC Industrial Relations Director (Special Duty)

Casual, Contract and Low Wage Workers (CCL)

Pasir Ris-Punggol

GRC

Alex Yam Young NTUC Head (Strategies & Planning/Youth Lab) Chua Chu Kang GRC

Patrick Tay NTUC Industrial Relations

Healthcare Services Employees’ Union Executive Secretary

Nee Soon

GRC

june july 2011


May Day Hurray

makewaves

“Keep it young, keep it

strong, keep it relevant

and effective. That is an

investment for the future.

This is also a symbol of the

Government’s full support

for the union movement

and for Singapore workers,”

urged PM Lee as he agreed to

NTUC Secretary-General Lim Swee

Say’s suggestion of starting a new

NTUC50 Development Fund to grow

a new generation of members and

develop new leaders – to which the

Government will provide S$3 for

every dollar raised by NTUC. The

fund’s total target is S$50 million,

which works out to $12.5 million from

the NTUC and $37.5 million from the

Government.

The Prime Minister’s message took

place against the backdrop of the

May Day Rally held at the Singapore

Indoor Stadium to the attendance of

some 8,500 people from government

leaders, to union members, and

employers which marked the National

Trades Union Congress' (NTUC)

celebration of its 50th anniversary.

Referring to the importance of

investing in people through education

and training, PM Lee cited the

“constructive” role the labour

movement plays, and its ties with the

PAP – a relationship which goes back

50 years.

Although a vital part of Singapore’s

resilience is owed to tripartism

between the unions, Government and

employers, PM Lee lauded the labour

movement in particular for having

been a key partner.

“Our future depends on strong unions

– forward-looking, dynamic, which in

turn, depends on a strong NTUC that

will renew itself with new leaders,” he

said.

Undergirding this are the longstanding

ties between the PAP and the NTUC

- the result of a pro-PAP alternative

to Barisan Socialis’ Singapore

makewaves

june july 2011


Association of Trade Unions (SATU) in

1961. The PAP-NTUC partnership has

prevailed since.

This relationship, said PM Lee,

benefits workers. As Labour MPs

have looked after workers’ interests

in Parliament, given workers a

strong voice in Cabinet on national

policies, and ensured that “what the

Government does is pro-worker and

pro-Singapore”.

Aside from this, SG Lim Swee Say

also announced in his May Day Rally

speech that the Continuing Education

and Training (CET) centre in Jurong

Lake District will be called the Devan

Nair Institute for Employment and

Employability – in tribute to the

founding Secretary-General who

led the modernisation of the Labour

Movement. The centre is expected to

open in 2013.

makewaves

A ReMARkABLe 50 YeARS NTUC50 ANNiversAry DiNNer

june july 2011


Aside from looking back on a remarkable 50-year journey, the evening of 13 May 2011 paid tribute to 50 of the Labour

Movement’s stalwarts and workers for their invaluable contributions in helping form and shape the National Trades

Union Congress (NTUC) to what it is today.

The dinner was a celebration of NTUC’s 50th Anniversary; the venue was Marina Bay

Sands Integrated Resort and its guests – numbering 3,500 comprised past and present

union leaders, representatives of tripartite partners, staff from the NTUC, unions and

Social Enterprises as well as unionists from the international labour fraternity. SMOU – an

affiliated union under the NTUC umbrella was represented by General Secretary Mr Thomas

Tay, President Capt Robin Foo, Executive Secretary Ms Mary Liew and the SMOU Executive

Committee.

Fifty people and organisations including veteran unionists, grassroots and political leaders,

individuals and staff were honoured with Special Recognition awards that night. Among

the distinguished recipients were former Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, President S R

Nathan, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Cheok Tong, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and

SMOU Advisor and Immediate Past Secretary-General (IPSG) Lim Boon Heng.

NTUC President John De Payva paid tribute to them: “The 50 stalwarts being

recognised have understood the importance of the Labour Movement

to the welfare of Singapore workers. Many of them were there when

NTUC first started in 1961, and have used their influence and power

to fight for the rights of all workers, whether it was enhancing labour-

management relations, charting new directions or championing

workers’ causes in good times and bad. Workers today are reaping the

fruits of their hard labour, and much can be learnt from them.”

While expressing his gratitude to the individuals who have contributed to NTUC’s growth,

President De Payva also credited Guest-Of-Honour Mr Lee Kuan Yew for his pivotal role

in the Labour scene.

“MM Lee was the legal counsel for many unions in our early years fighting for the rights of workers, often waiving his

professional fees before he entered politics. When MM Lee was Prime Minister, he changed the confrontational labour

relations approach to today’s collaborative approach between union and management. From uncertainty and unrest

with no job security to speak of in the fifties, to a strong economy and steady employment today, MM Lee’s vision and

commitment saw improvement in the quality of life for millions of Singapore workers,” said President De Payva.

Prior to his speech, the guests received glimpses on video of Mr Lee’s past trademark fiery, steely and inspirational

speeches. His mindfulness of the interests of workers and their unions together with his emphasis on maintaining

relations with the unions formed the basis of the transformation from confrontation to co-operation and the development

of the tripartite relationship.

“Today, I am happy to join you in celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the NTUC. Those of you who were around in the 1960s

will remember that the NTUC nearly lost to SATU (Singapore Association of Trade Unions), led then by communist leftists.

makewaves

june july 2011


Pointing out that Singapore

trade union leaders and

members are agents of

change as opposed to the old

British and European trade

unions, Mr Lee added:

“NTUC’s challenge

now is to keep up with the fast pace of

economic transformation. The world

changes with technology and the fast

rate of new technology introduces new

lifestyles, new ways of communication,

opens up people’s horizons and therefore

change becomes faster and faster. And you

have to help our young workers, including

the old workers, professionals and rank-

and-file to secure better jobs, better pay

and live a better life for many more years

to come.”

As Guest-Of-Honour,

Mr Lee also launched

NTUC’s commemorative

book, titled ‘U & Me’

in a signing ceremony.

The book is a historical

account of the Labour

Movement’s heritage.

“Today’s anniversary celebration is a timely

reminder of the long way NTUC has come and

the efficacy of tripartism. It might have been a

different story had it not been for the visionary,

persevering men and women who were the

cornerstones in the formation and development

of the Labour Movement. We are indebted to

them and are privileged beneficiaries of their

heartfelt dedication.”- SMOU Executive Secretary Ms Mary Liew

“In a baton relay, the race continues but

the runners change. The people within

each organisation shape and determine the

philosophy and direction of the organisation.

While experienced unionists flow-on to make

way for new leaders, we remember and

appreciate the extent that their contributions

and the arduous journey they have taken have

guided us to arrive at where we are today;

setting the tone and example for the leaders of

tomorrow.” - SMOU General Secretary Mr Thomas Tay

Ms Mary Liew (4th from left) with Mdm Yu-Foo Yee Shoon

and friends from the Chinese Women’s Association

Friends from Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Taiwan

PM LEE with shipping associates and SMOU representatives

june july 2011


FORGiNG NETwORkS; bROADENiNG HORizONSyoUNg MAriNers NeTworkiNg

Jointly organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Young Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (Young SMOU), the Young Mariners Networking attracted a group of young seafarers eager to learn more about the thriving maritime industry.

The event, which kicked off at NTUC Centre at One Marina Boulevard

on 11 May 2011, began with a seafaring video, followed by group

bonding games, a welcome address by SMOU President Capt Robin

Foo, sharing sessions by Capt Steve Foong from ConocoPhilips

and Mr Tan Kah Soon from MPA, and a short Social Skills Course

entitled “Understanding Cross-Cultural Diversity On Board Ships”

by Wavelink Maritime Institute (WMI) trainer Mr Tan Kwang Keng.

Following this, the young mariners proceeded to the Lighthouse

Bistro in Wavelink Building for some networking, dinner, and light-

hearted fun and enjoyment.

Encouraging his fellow mariners to take full advantage of such

networking events to glean experiences, tap wisdom, exchange

ideas, and share best practices, Young SMOU Committee Member Mr

Shawn Hoe had this to say in his welcome address:

“Being a young mariner

myself, I am sure that such

a platform will allow us to

recognise more opportunities in the future.

Seize this chance, therefore, to interact

and broaden your horizons with the union

and Government affiliates. I am certain

that they will also be more than happy

to listen to your perspectives at work,

while contributing to the global maritime

transportation.”

“We thank MPA for jointly hosting this evening’s occasion

with SMOU and presenting young mariners the opportunity to meet

with fellow comrades of the maritime industry while allowing our young members to network

and exchange ideas with one another.”

makewaves

theIRfile

june july 2011


Here are what some young mariners had to say

about the day’s event:

“It’s the first time that I feel so warmly

welcomed by the reception here. I look

forward to being part of

SMOU because I believe

that the union will take

care of us, much like a

family staying under

the same roof. It was

definitely a good chance

for me to meet some

of the higher ranking

leaders. There were no

communication barriers

between the seniors and us.” - Mr James

Foong, 23, is from MISC. This is his first time

attending Young Mariners Night.

“I have a strong attachment to SMOU

as I can always count on

them for help no matter

what. It’s definitely

not easy being in the

maritime industry, but

with support from fellow

peers as well as the

union, we are able to

keep going. I enjoyed the

sharing sessions by the

speakers. They gave us valuable tips on

what to expect at sea, and how to react

in different and challenging situations.- Mr Wang Wei Rong, 23, has been a Young

SMOU member since 2007. He has been sailing

for six months with APL training ship.

“I chose a seafaring

career because I like

to travel the world and

interact with people of

different nationalities

and cultures. The talks

delivered in the afternoon

were very inspiring. They

taught me how to adapt

to new environments as

well as how to appreciate and respect

differences among comrades of various

nationalities and ethnic backgrounds.” - Ms Nurhafezah Hassan, 18, is a second year

Marine Engineering student at the Singapore

Maritime Academy. Inspired by her brother, she

aspires to be a Marine Engineer in the future.

When I first started

at sea, the drastic

change of lifestyle

and adaptation to

changes were all too

sudden. But I was

fortunate enough

to have friendly

seniors who helped

make my transition

into seafaring life smoother. The Young

Mariners Networking allowed me to

catch up with my friends! - Mr Puvanesvaran, 23, has been sailing for eight

months with NSSPL.

june july 2011


SMOU officials, Young SMOU, and members got in on

the act to help piece together a specially commissioned

Lego mural depicting Maritime Singapore at the

Singapore Maritime Week (SMW) 2011.

Organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of

Singapore (MPA) as part of SMW, the activity saw

more than 70 participants from all across the maritime

community building a four by two metre mural made

up of more than 100,000 Lego pieces.

The mural depicts the vibrancy of the maritime

community in Singapore, symbolising how individuals

come together to form a lively ecosystem - that is

Maritime Singapore. It was a good opportunity for

networking, as shipping affiliates stayed in tune

with MPA’s direction to bring Singapore Shipping to

the next level.

Said Guest-Of-Honour and former Minister for

Transport, Mr Raymond Lim, who launched SMW

at the Suntec City Entertainment Centre Atrium on

10 April:

"I am glad that the Singapore Maritime

Week continues to reach out to

the community through its various

programmes. With the strong support

of participants from the international

maritime community, I am sure that

Singapore Maritime Week will continue

to be a success as it reflects Singapore's

development as an international maritime

centre."

SMOU President Capt Robin Foo was buoyed by the

popular support and MPA’s organisation of SMW:

”Many industry, research, educational

institutions, and maritime bodies have

congregated together for SMW. The

positive response together with the quality

and array of events and activities planned

are evidence of Singapore’s ever growing

vibrancy and diversity as an international

maritime hub.”

A HIT WITH THE MASSESsiNgApore MAriTiMe week 2011

About Singapore Maritime Week

SMW has grown in size and significance since its

inaugural event in 2006, receiving strong support

from the maritime community and attracting

more participants and event organisers from

around the world.

With a constantly renewed flow of activities

added to the line-up, participants can expect

to hear about new developments, activities

and events; receive keys insights from eminent

speakers; and participate in dialogues on topical

maritime issues.

makewaves

june july 2011


theIRfile

Apart from building relationships and fostering closer

bonds between shipping employers and the union, the

Bipartite Maritime Training Summit’s main objective

was to dialogue on the quality and efficacy of maritime

training both in China and in Singapore.

Held on 21 April 2011 at the Shangri-la Hotel in Dalian,

union officials and employers reviewed the CadetsPlus

enhancement training and OfficersPlus programme to

introduce new ideas to take these two programmes

forward and develop training methodologies to keep up

with industry changes.

In addition, industry training issues in Singapore’s

maritime industry were explored, including how

to address industry challenges through bipartite

collaborations between employers and the union.

ENHANCiNG TRAiNiNG THROUGH biPARTiSM

”It was a unique platform for fruitful

discussions between the union and

shipping companies, as we were committed

to develop people skills for improving the

quality of shipping manpower.”- Mr Santosh Khosla, A.P. Moller Maersk

“ As we aim towards positioning Singapore

as a quality flag state, this dialogue

enabled us to exchange different ideas and

industrial perspectives.”- Capt Yeow Kok Kean, NSSPL

theIRfile

june july 2011


“The increased enrolment is beneficial to

both our young people and our nation. Thanks

to the expanded enrolment, we can say

goodbye to those days when working abroad

was like passing over a narrow bridge, with

only a few able to make it to the other side.”

– Professor Liu Zheng Jiang, DMU

Such were the words of the Vice President of Dalian

Maritime University (DMU) as he painted a realistic

picture of the magnitude of potential for Chinese

seafarers during his speech at SMOU’s Dalian Night, held

in Dalian, China on 22 April 2011. Indeed, never before

has such a precious opportunity for working abroad been

presented, as evidenced by relevant

statistics recorded from 1998 to 2004,

indicating an average annual output of

PRC seafarers growth rate to be more

than 13.8 per cent. PRC officers have

done their country proud, establishing

good reputations internationally.

Birthed from a vision to help PRC

cadets on the first stages of their

career build strong seafaring

foundations, SMOU in collaboration

with shipping employers and Wavelink

Maritime Institute (WMI) started the

CadetsPlus programme to strengthen

the foundations already possessed by

PRC cadets.

Since its introduction in Qingdao five years ago and the

graduation of its pilot batch of 80 cadets, the CadetsPlus

programme has since had 580 cadets hailing from

several cities across the PRC including Wuhan, Nanjing,

Xiamen and more recently Dalian, passing through its

ranks, graduating from the programme, and serving on

Singapore-Flag vessels.

On 22 April 2011, more than 220 youthful, energetic

Chinese cadets graduated from the programme in Dalian

in a convocation ceremony held earlier during the day

at DMU, while a celebratory dinner that same evening

served as a fitting conclusion to a memorable training

programme.

seav o i c e s newsletter june july 201114

CADETSPLUS ADDRESSES RiSiNG DEMANDSCADeTsplUs DAliAN NighT

Professor Liu Zheng

Jiang, Vice President

of Dalian Maritime

University (DMU)

theIRfile

june july 2011


Its largest graduating class in China to date

since its inception, the numbers and success

are testament to the synergistic co-operation

between Singapore and China as well as SMOU’s

close links with the China Coordination Council

for Overseas Seamen Employment (COSE), with

the privileged and unwavering support of PRC

partners and affiliates including the Chinese

Seamen’s Union (CSU), shipping employers,

manning agents and training institutions.

Citing signed memorandums for manning co-operation in 2005 between

SMOU and COSE and in 2008 between the Singapore and Chinese

Governments as reasons, Mr Wang Yucheng, who spoke on behalf of COSE

emphasised the ever growing potential for co-operation and development:

“In recent years, the co-operation between Singapore and China in trade

and economy develops at a rapid speed. At the end of 2010, there were

86,389 dispatched Chinese workers still working in Singapore, as Singapore

is one of our best co-operators.”

SMOU General Secretary Mr Thomas Tay in his address thanked various

shipping and manning companies in Singapore and China for providing

sustainable growth in training and job opportunities for SMOU’s Chinese

members; Professor Liu Zheng Jiang for providing the training facility for

students; Guest-Of-Honour, SMOU/Wavelink Advisor Mr Matthias Yao;

working partner and Managing Director of Sino Star Marine Services Pte Ltd

Capt Tao Yuen Chow, and his team from Sino Star Marine Services Pte Ltd.

Aside from celebrating the success

of graduating cadets, Guest-Of-

Honour Mr Matthias Yao also

reminded graduates and guests that

the celebration acknowledged SMOU

members’ contributions to Singapore

shipping and international shipping as

part of SMOU’s 60th Anniversary.

The occasion was marked in style

with a celebratory dinner, the

presentation of awards, book prizes,

and performances by cadets.

GOH Mr Matthias Yao presents certificates to graduating cadets

SMOU Chinese Members come together to celebrate the union’s 60th Anniversary

Mr Li Tieqiao, President of the Chinese Seamen’s Union (CSU)

june july 2011


theIRfile

HiGHER wAGES ACROSS THE bOARD

Good news! Due to the

recent restructuring and

standardisation of its

predecessor Singapore

Flag CBA (SFA), officers

across different ranks

can now receive a wage

increase!

Officers from Neptune Shipmanagement

Services (Pte) Ltd (NSSPL) are one such beneficiary

of the newly improved wage system following the

signing of a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA)

between the shipping company and officials from

SMOU on 18 May 2011.

The restructuring heralds wage increases across

many fronts as SMOU Executive Secretary Ms

Mary Liew explained: “This restructuring and

standardisation signals that officers across

the board can now enjoy a wage increase of

23 per cent compared to the International

Transport Workers’ Federation’s Total Crew

Cost (ITF TCC).”

Capt Lee Chee Seong, Managing Director of NSSPL

was highly supportive of the improved wage system.

“The increased wages will indeed traverse a

long way to attracting more vocations to the

maritime industry and towards promoting

Singapore as an International Maritime

Centre (IMC),” he added.

theIRfile

june july 2011


NepTUNe shipMANAgeMeNT siNgApore MAriTiMe

offiCers’ AgreeMeNT 2011

“The fact that both parties are willing

to move towards providing the best

for all officers and members in this

wage restructure highlights the strong

bipartite relationship between NSSPL

and SMOU.“

- Capt Ong Ming Foo, Master of APL Scotland

YEAR:- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Master 6,609 7,149 7,450 7,750 8,050 8,350 8,657 8,956 9,258

Chief Engineer 6,491 7,050 7,341 7,632 7,922 8,212 8,510 8,801 9,091

Chief Officer 5,060 5,500 5,721 5,943 6,161 6,382

2nd Engineer 4,968 5,399 5,620 5,841 6,062 6,284

Senior Electrical Engineer 3,792 4,121 4,319 4,520 4,721 4,920 5,190 5,325

2nd Officer 3,433 3,901 4,081 4,262 4,442 4,623

3rd Engineer 3,379 3,840 4,009 4,181 4,350 4,521

3rd Officer 2,948 3,350 3,500 3,650 3,800

4th Engineer,

Electrical Engineer

2,916 3,310 3,460 3,610 3,760

4th Officer,

5th Engineer

1,902 2,161 2,290 2,420 2,549

Junior Engineer,

Junior Electrical Engineer

1,708 1,940 2,040 2,141

Deck Cadet,

Assistant Engineer

501 549

*Gross Salary is inclusive of Basic Salary, Fixed Overtime, Leave Pay and Other Allowances.

A superior certificate allowance is payable to holders of a superior certificate as follows:

(i) Chief Officer / 2nd Engineer with Class 1 COC US$480 per month.

(ii) 2nd Officer / 3rd Engineer with Class 2 or 1 COC US$330 per month.

Nsspl (sfA) MAriTiMe offiCers' AgreeMeNT 2011

MoNThly gross sAlAry* sCAles iN UNiTeD sTATes DollArsWITH EFFECT FROM 1 MAY 2011

{ {

SMOU - THOME SEAL CA

18 june july 2011

seav o i c e s newsletter

The collective agreement (CA) was concluded on 20 May

2011 at the SMOU office where representatives from

Thome Ship Management Pte Ltd - Director for Group

Crewing and HR Mr Michael Elwert, and Crewing Manager

Mr Reji Joseph met with SMOU General Secretary Mr

Thomas Tay and SMOU Executive Secretary Ms Mary

Liew in the company of Industrial Relations (IR) Manager

Mr Gwee Guo Duan, IR Consultant Mr Kumaran Kunjoo,

and IR Officer Mr Terence Tan to place pen to paper.

The industrial relations officers had undergone several rounds of negotiation with the company prior to the signing to

ensure that the relevant clauses were in place.

theIRfile

“The conclusion of the agreement is a step in a right direction. Thome Ship

Management has demonstrated to be a company that places the welfare of

our seafaring members as a priority.” - SMOU General Secretary, Mr Thomas Tay

Said Mr Michael Elwert: “We are positively delighted to have had signed a CA

with SMOU. This augurs well for all parties concerned. We look forward to a

long lasting and fruitful partnership with SMOU.”

june july 2011


SMOU PLAYS HOST FOR STUDY TRiP

UNiON COUNTERPARTS UNiTE

NTUC International Affairs Department (IAD) led by NTUC’s

Vice President Mr Thomas Tay, hosted a lunch for visitors

from the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL),

and Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions (HKFTU) on 13

May 2011 at the Lighthouse Bistro.

The aim of the get together was to forge stronger

relationships with international affiliates as well as

exchange pointers and shared concerns about the industry.

SMOU General Secretary Mr Thomas Tay and Executive

Secretary Ms Mary Liew together with Mr Frederick Ho

and Ms Marilyn Teo joined in welcoming HKFTU Vice

President Mr Leung Fu Wah, HKFTU Secretary (Secretary

Committee Department) Mr Chan Hcun Yu, VGCL Vice

President Mr Nguyen Van Ngang, VGCL International

Department and Head of Administration Division Mr Dam

Quang Cu.

theIRfile

Several members of the Hong Kong Logistics Cargo Supervisors Association

(LCSA) visited SMOU on 5 May 2011 to exchange perspectives on the workings

of Singapore and Hong Kong Unions.

Apart from a screening of SMOU’s corporate video and a guided tour around

the building, SMOU also highlighted Singapore’s unique tripartite model.

The feedback of the tripartite model was very positive as it showcased

the strong relationships shared with the Government, union and shipping

employers.

june july 2011


iR CURE iN ACTiONir pArTNers MeeT AND NeTwork

Attended by some 70 guests

representing CBA companies, SMOU

Industrial Relations Company Union

Rapport Exercise (IR CURE), held

on 31 March 2011 at the Lighthouse

Bistro in Wavelink Building, offered

an opportune and pleasurable time

to catch up and mingle with partners

and associates.

Here’s all the action in pictures:

theIRfile

june july 2011


theIRfile

membuzz

june july 2011


CELEbRATiNG SMOU’S 60TH ANNivERSARYsMoU MegA Trip: geNTiNg 2011

As part of SMOU’s many activities lined up for its 60th

Anniversary celebrations, close to 230 members and their

families gathered on 12 March at two pick up points at

Wavelink Building and Jurong for a three-days two-nights

trip to Genting Highlands to celebrate all things SMOU.

The trip was planned in conjunction with the union’s 60th

Anniversary.

SMOU t-shirts were distributed earlier to all members

and their families. As they packed into nine coaches,

the entourage adjourned, stopping briefly at Yong Peng

for a quick bite before continuing to First World Hotel in

Genting.

That evening, members were treated to a “welcome”

buffet dinner hosted by SMOU at the Genting International

Convention Centre and given limited edition SMOU hand

fans as door gifts. A Glamour Shots counter proved

popular - whereupon members and their families queued

to have their pictures taken, printed, and presented on

the spot

Singer Cerlyn Chan and magician Jonathan Heron

entertained guests with their silky voice and illusions,

while the emcee roused the crowd with fun and interactive

table games.

SMOU ES Ms

Mary Liew

delivers her

welcome

address in

Genting,

Malaysia

SMOU families having a ball of a time

Members engage in table games

membuzz

june july 2011


And what anniversary celebration

would be complete without a

birthday cake? As SMOU officials

and Exco members went on

stage to belt “Happy Birthday”

to SMOU and cut a birthday cake

emblazoned with the union’s

60th Anniversary logo. For SMOU

member Mdm Iris Chang, it was twice the festivity as she

celebrated her 60th birthday in March.

A lucky draw was conducted towards the end of the

programme where 10 lucky members walked away with

fabulous prizes consisting of vouchers, a camera and a

watch.

Day two was free and easy, as several members and their

families visited the strawberry farm located at the lower

hills of Genting; while others decided to stay behind to

enjoy the theme park rides or try their luck at the casinos.

In appreciation of its members, SMOU treated all to a one

hour magic, illusion, martial arts and sand art show entitled

“Glitz” at the Genting Pavillion.

Mdm Iris Chang celebrates her 60th birthday with SMOU

A SMOU Family at Strawberry Farm Members strike a pose at the Strawberry Farm

june july 2011


OUR MEMbERS, OUR FUTUREsMoU MeMBers AppreCiATioN DiNNer

In appreciation of its members, a total of

250 members and their families gathered

over three evenings on 8, 18 and 22 March

2011 at the Lighthouse Bistro to celebrate

SMOU’s 60th Anniversary.

Members and their family members joined in unison

as all sang “Happy Birthday” to the cutting of birthday

cakes during each of the three nights.

The evenings were interspersed with live music,

where members revelled in song and dance to

tunes serenaded by a live band who received

member song requests from the 70’s through

to the 90’s.

Members were treated to buffet spreads which

included satay stalls, free flow of beer and drinks and lucky

draws.

On the final night (22 March), a grand draw was conducted

for all members who attended the appreciation dinner over

any of the three evenings. Three lucky members walked

away with an iPad, Sony handphone and Sony camera.

membuzz

june july 2011


membuzz

june july 2011


COMiNGSOON!

membuzz

As part of SMOU’s 60th Anniversary celebrations, a spectacular Gala dinner will be organised for SMOU members by Young SMOU.

Enjoy Exclusive International Acts by Terry Parade from Moulin Rouge in Paris, to Singapore’s very own comedian, Kumar in a night of fun and laughter!

Block out your calendars and join us for a night to remember!

Date: 30 September 2011

(Friday)

Time: 6.00pm

Venue: Resort World Sentosa

Guest-of-Honour:

Mr Lim Swee Say, Minister,

Prime Minister's Office,

Secretary-General, NTUC

SMOU 60TH ANNIVERSARY GALA DINNER

The 6th Annual Bowling

Challenge organised by Young

SMOU is here again! Who shall

be crowned bowling maestros

and kings/queens of the Alley?

Date: 13 August 2011 (Saturday)

Time: 10am – 1pm

Venue: Orchard Bowl @ eHub! Downtown East

Guest-Of-Honour:

Mr Alex Yam,

Member of Parliament for Choa Chu Kang GRC,

Young NTUC Head (Strategies & Planning/Youth Lab)

ANNUAL

bOwLiNGCHALLENGE

AUGUST

bOw

LiNG

September

For more information, visit www.smou.org.sg

Attractive prizes to be won!

If you’re 35 years and below, stand a chance to win a

special Young SMOU prize!

Attractive prizes to be won!

If you’re 35 years and below, stand a chance to win a

special Young SMOU prize!

june july 2011


For MPA Mandatory Courses, please contact Mr Kevin Loh Mr RivinTel: (65) 6874 7782 Tel:(65) 6874 7782 Fax: (65) 6874 7666 Fax: (65) 6874 7666 Email: [email protected]

For registration or enquiries, please contact: Ms Christina Tey Tel: (65) 6390 1648Fax: (65) 6295 1121Email: [email protected]

Visit us at: www.wavelink.com.sg/wmi

Training Calendar (July - September 2011)

Course Fees inclusive of 7% GST

Course Title Date Duration Course Fee

MPA Mandatory Courses

Pilotage Exemption (Large Vessel)

Course & Assessment

On Demand 5 hrs $2,675.00

Pilotage Exemption (Large Vessel)

Renewal Assessment

On Demand 2.5 hrs $1,401.70

Pilotage Exemption (Small Vessel)

New**

On Demand 1 Day $383.06

Pilotage Exemption (Small Vessel)

Refresher

On Demand 3 hrs $333.80

Port Limit Tanker Master (New)** On Demand 1.5 Days $591.70

Port Limit Tanker Master (Refresher) On Demand 4 hrs $255.70

Tug Master (New) On Demand 3 hrs $837.80

Maritime Courses

Maritime Resource Management

Course (MRM)

4 - 6 July

12 - 14 Sept

3 Days $909.50

Maritime Resource & Bridge Team

Management Course

4 - 8 July

12 - 16 Sept

5 Days $1,605.00

IMO Model Course 1.27

(Operational Use of ECDIS)

22 - 26 Aug 5 Days $1,284.00

Senior Officers Leadership

Assessment Programme (SOLAP)

4 - 6 July

5 - 7 Sept

3 Days $2,942.50

IMO Model Course 1.22 (Ship

Simulator and Bridge Teamwork)

25 - 27 July

14 - 16 Sept

3 Days $1,070.00

Shiphandling Course 6 - 8 July

14 - 16 Sept

3 Days $1,284.00

Bunker Cargo Officer Course On Demand Full Time

Part Time

$2,675.00

Maritime Introductory Courses

Familiarisation of IMO Convention 14 - 15 July 2 Days $749.00

Familiarisation on Operational Use

of ECDIS

22 - 23 Aug 2 Days $535.00

Safety Culture for Optimum Safety

Performance


Ship Security Awareness Course On Demand 1 Day $171.20

Course Title Date Duration Course Fee

MPA Mandatory Courses

Experienced Tug Master (Refresher) On Demand 1.5 Hrs $460.10

Passenger Ferry Safety (New) On Demand 1 Day $294.25

Passenger Ferry Safety (Refresher) On Demand 4 Hrs $230.05

Port Limit Special Grade

(Deck Officer)

On Demand 3 Days $449.40

Bunker Surveying Course On Demand 2 Days $321.00

Oil Spill Control On Demand 1 Day $171.20

Maritime Courses


(Ship Security Officer)

11 - 12 July

13 - 14 Sept

2 Days $642.00


(Company Security Officer)

11 - 13 July

13 - 15 Sept

3 Days $963.00


(Port Facility Security Officer)

10 - 12 Aug 3 Days $963.00

ISM & ISPS Internal Auditor 4 - 6 July

20 - 22 Sept

3 Days $1,284.00

ISM Internal Auditor 4 - 5 July

20 - 21 Sept

2 Days $695.50

ISPS Internal Auditor 5 - 6 July

21 - 22 Sept

2 Days $856.00

Powered Pleasure Craft Driving

Licence (PPCDL)

On Demand 2 Days $321.00

Maritime Introductory Courses

Designated Person Ashore (DPA)

Training Course

23 - 24 Aug 2 Days $749.00

Maritime Labour Convention, 2006

Awareness Programme


Familiarisation with Shipping Terms

& Maritime Jargon


Introduction to Risk Management On Demand 1 Day $272.85

WMI

theIRfile

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

Subsidiary Companies and Business Divisions

OUR VISIONThe Number One

Professional, Dynamic

and Growing Organisation

For The Maritime

Community

And Beyond.

june july 2011


Wavelink Maritime Institute’s (WMI)

CadetsPlus Programme has included

a new addition to its one month

CadetsPlus Programme, a customised

training programme which aims to

prepare cadets for shipboard training.

The result of valuable feedback

gathered from shipping companies,

was a lesson on Piracy. Cadets

were briefed on piracy trends in

high risk areas, typical piracy attack

patterns and self-protective measures

as recommended in the Best

Management Practices. The lesson’s

objective was to allay cadets’ fears

and concerns regarding piracy and

more importantly, educate them on

what to do and how to react in the

event of a pirate attack.

The one-month training reinforces

and adds value to the theoretical

knowledge, skills and attitudes

acquired by cadets during their

maritime studies in the university or

at the academy.

These lessons help to facilitate a

smoother transition for cadets prior

to embarking on their shipboard

postings and learning to adapt to new

conditions and environments.

The one-month CadetsPlus training

consists of four modules: Maritime

English, Maritime Legislation and

Regulations, Maritime Occupational

Safety, Health & Environmental

Protection, and Shipboard

Organisational Behaviour &

Management.

Currently into its fourth consecutive

year since its pilot programme in

Nanjing in 2008, WMI conducted its

2011 CadetsPlus Programme in Dalian

Maritime Academy, China from 28

March to 22 April 2011 for 212 cadets

from 12 participating CBA shipping

companies.

The cadets were visibly delighted

during their graduation ceremony on

22 April 2011 as they shared their

thoughts on the programme:

“This programme certainly

gave us more confidence for our

shipboard posting. Listening to

our overseas trainers helped

open our minds to think beyond

the boundaries of classroom

learning. We are now more

aware of ship owners’ and

operators’ expectations of us.”

“The biggest challenge for me

was to listen and speak English

in class. It was something I

seldom did or avoided in the

university. The one-month of

conversing in English was

intense! We were literally

thrown into the deep end of the

pool and had no choice but to

use English as our only means

of communication.”

Said WMI Trainer, Capt S K

Menon, “Perhaps now,

they better understand

the great survival instinct

and adaptability of human

beings. We wanted the

cadets to venture out of

their comfort zones and

get fully acquainted with

the use of the language.”

CADETSPLUS 2011ADDS PiRACY TO iTS TRAiNiNG PROGRAMME DAliAN, ChiNA

WMI

june july 2011


WINE

WHILE

YOU

DINE

Folonari, Soave ClassicoStraw yellow in colour

and featuring a fruity and

crisp bouquet, the Soave

Classico is characterised by

a delicate, dry flavour with

a crisp finish - making it an

ideal combination with a

course of shellfish, fish, or

chicken.

Folonari, ValpolicellaThe Valpolicella’s pale

ruby red colour, fresh and

pleasantly fruity bouquet

and light and refreshing

taste nicely complements

veal, salmon, red meat,

pizza, pasta in meat sauce,

grilled vegetables, and

antipasto.

Italian Wine Promotion

Bottle: $39.00 (U.P $45.00) | Glass: $7.50 per glass

june july 2011


Programme Details“Where have the Senior Officers Fled?”

Mr Thomas Timlen Asia Liaison Officer,

Baltic and International Maritime Council

“Protecting Seafarers From The Piracy Scourge”

Mr Michael G Frodl,

C-Level Maritime Risks

“The New Gen X & Y Seafarers”

Mr Simon Frank, Fleet Personnel Director,

Wallem Group Ltd

“Is China still the answer to the shortage?”

Mr Terence Zhao Wei, Managing Director,

Singhai Marine Services

Panel Discussion

Capt Vijay Rangroo, Managing Director,

MTM Ship Management Pte Ltd

“ILO – Implementation of the New Standards for Seafarers' Welfare“

Mr Cheong Keng Soon, Director (Shipping),

Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore

“New ITF National-Flag Wage Policy”

Mr Stephen Cotton, Maritime Coordinator,

International Transport Workers’ Federation

“Level playing field for the Asian Shipping Market”

Mr Patrick Phoon, Honorary Secretary,

Singapore Shipping Association

“Union Perspectives on Maritime Development”

Mr Thomas Tay, General Secretary,

Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union

Panel Discussion and Summation

Mr Ong Yen Her, Divisional Director,

Labour Relations & Workplaces Div. Ministry of Manpower

To register,

visit www.

mms2011.

com.sg

may day hurray

Documents