From Left: Vitalii Chaika (ASP General Manager for Crewing), Keshav Bhagwati Prasad, Rolito Ordeniza, Nathaniel Cocson, Domingo Jr Sanchez, Mario Alan, Capt. Asit Das, Christian Sotto, Judy Dairo, Tejas Sawant, Jubhill Dente, Htun Soe Min, Cornelio Peralta and Associate Port Chaplain, Toh Soon Kok.

The Mission to Seafarers Singapore appreciates Team Tankers International, as Owners, and ASP Ship Management Singapore, as Technical Managers, for arranging a short sailing stint for the Singapore Port Chaplain, Toh Soon Kok, on one of their tankers in August 2018. It was a good opportunity for the Chaplain to perceive the challenges of shipboard life from the Seafarers perspective, allowing him to spend quality time with crew members with the aim of improving the services the Mission provides to Seafarers welfare.

Team Tankers International and ASP Ship Management Singapore have set priorities for the well-being of Seafarers and were only too pleased to be able to assist the Chaplain in his pursuit of this onboard experience. A five-day voyage on the MT Sichem Hong Kong followed and this gave him an opportunity to understand the challenges encountered by crew members at all levels.

During two rotations from Pasir Gudang, Malaysia, to Singapore, Soon Kok and all crew were able to engage in valuable exchanges and experiences that were both enlightening and interesting, including responding to a call for assistance in search of a missing crew member who fell overboard from another vessel. The visiting Chaplain facilitated interactions and bonding sessions and motivated crew members to work safely so that they can go on providing for their families and go home safely to their loved ones.

The tanker, when berthed in Pasir Gudang, Malaysia, saw some crew members taking the opportunity of some free time shopping for their favorite snacks and toiletries.

Mission to Seafarers Port Chaplains around the world make best efforts to engage with Seafarers through ship visits in ports on a regular basis, offering a listening ear and with conversations often taking place to address their needs and struggles. A short voyage on board like this improves the time spent with individuals and provides the opportunity for the Chaplain to gain a better understanding of ship board life and the opportunity to listen to and share problems both at work or at home.

These were only small steps taken to understand and relieve stress in Seafarers, but a little ripple could go a long way in showing care and concern for the ‘Big Seafaring Family’.

Once again, a big thank you to Team Tankers International and ASP Ship Management Singapore for making this short voyage possible.