As border restrictions have eased, the Mission to Seafarers Singapore (MTSS) has resumed its vital in-person support for seafarers at both shipboard and drop-in centers. MTSS chairman Captain Rob Walker expressed relief at returning to this essential outreach, highlighting the charity’s role in providing a respite for seafarers during their long periods at sea.
Managed by volunteers, including Captain Walker—who is also Chief Operating Officer of ASP Ship Management—the MTSS is supported on-site by Chaplain Toh Soon Kok, a familiar presence for many visiting seafarers. The organization operates two drop-in centers located within Singapore’s port limits: one at Jurong Port and another at Pasir Panjang Terminal, providing crucial access without the need for seafarers to navigate port security. The Jurong Port center, primarily catering to bulk and general cargo vessels, offers recreational activities like pool, darts, and a library, along with internet access to enable seafarers to connect with family back home.
The Pasir Panjang center, on the other hand, is mainly oriented towards ship visits, accommodating the quick turnaround of container vessels. Last year, MTSS conducted nearly 3,900 ship visits, reinforcing the importance of this outreach. The organization is always looking for more volunteers to assist with ship visiting and welcome guests at the drop-in centers, offering training for new recruits.
Despite improvements in onboard communication technology, many ships still lack internet access, making the MTSS initiative to distribute routers to vessels in port crucial. In 2022, roughly 8,787 crew members utilized this service. The mission relies on fundraising to support its activities, including the recent return of the Seafarers Awards, which honors outstanding individuals and companies in the field.
Looking forward, Walker aims to extend ship visits to vessels that anchor at Singapore for brief stops. The MTSS is currently renting boats for this purpose but is exploring longer-term options and discussions with the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) regarding the potential to borrow boats used by the authority.
Additionally, plans are in preliminary stages for a new drop-in center at the mega-terminal Tuas Port, which has begun operations. Discussions with the MPA regarding the center’s design and management are ongoing, with possibilities for multiple locations being considered as the port evolves into a fully automated facility.
In summary, as MTSS resumes its essential operations, it continues to play a crucial role in supporting seafarers, enhancing their well-being and connectivity as they navigate long stints away from home.
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