SMOU's CSR Initiative with ILSM Honours Fishermen at Jurong Fishery Port During the Day of the Seafarer 2026

A'Fowsh Flora
Jul 9
3 min read

24 June 2026 | Jurong Fishery Port, Singapore

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts, the Singapore Maritime Officers' Union (SMOU) partnered with the International Lutheran Seafarers' Mission (ILSM) to organize a Donative drive and appreciation celebration for fishermen at Jurong Fishery Port in conjunction with the Day of the Seafarer 2026. Together, volunteers brought practical support, encouragement, and fellowship to the fishing community, recognizing the people behind the vessels and the important role they play in sustaining our nation.

Behind every seafood meal is a fisherman who works tirelessly at sea, often enduring long hours, harsh conditions, and months away from family. Though their work is vital to Singapore's food supply, many remain unseen and underappreciated. The nature of their work can also lead to isolation, fatigue, and loneliness.

Recognizing these challenges, the International Lutheran Seafarers' Mission (ILSM) partnered with the Singapore Maritime Officers' Union (SMOU) to organize a meaningful drive at Jurong Fishery Port (JFP) on 24 June 2026, in conjunction with the Day of the Seafarer, 2026. The initiative formed part of SMOU's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme and reflected a shared commitment to caring for the people behind Singapore's fishing industries.

Image credits: Singapore Maritime Officers' Union (SMOU).

Working Together for the Welfare of Fishermen

This drive brought together organizations with different strengths but one shared purpose, to improve the well-being of fishermen serving in Singapore's waters.

The Singapore Maritime Officers' Union (SMOU) has long championed the welfare of maritime professionals through advocacy, training, and corporate social responsibility. This initiative reflects SMOU's commitment to caring not only for seafarers but also for the wider maritime community, including fishermen.

The Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) supports the well-being of migrant workers through welfare programmes and assistance. Their sponsorship of mini gift packs was a meaningful gesture that reminded the fishermen they are seen, valued, and appreciated.

Jurong Fishery Port (JFP) is Singapore's primary wholesale fish market and the heart of the local fishing industry. As home to the fishing fleet, it also provides a valuable platform for organisations like ILSM to connect directly with fishermen and extend practical care and support while they are in port.

At the heart of this initiative is the International Lutheran Seafarers' Mission (ILSM). As a Christian welfare organisation serving both seafarers and fishermen, ILSM cares for their practical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. Through regular vessel visits, welfare support, friendship, prayer, and pastoral care, ILSM brings hope to those working at sea, reminding them that they are seen, valued, and never forgotten.

Caring Beyond the Goodie Bags

Together, volunteers from ILSM and SMOU packed and distributed goodie bags filled with daily essentials, hygiene products, and refreshments from Délifrance. Fishermen also received mini gift packs sponsored by MWC, along with in-kind clothing, footwear, luggage, bottles, and other useful items. Yet the outreach was about far more than the items distributed.

Volunteers spent time onboard and at the wharf speaking with more than 50 fishermen from three fishing vessels, listening to their experiences, learning about their lives at sea, and simply being present with them.

For fishermen who spend extended periods away from home, opportunities for genuine human connection are rare. Many face language and cultural barriers, long working hours, uncertain weather conditions, and the emotional burden of being separated from their loved ones. These conversations offered encouragement, dignity, and a reminder that their work is recognized and valued.

Sometimes, the greatest gift is not what we give, but the time we spend with someone. A simple conversation, a warm meal, or a kind gesture is enough to remind them that they are seen, valued, and not forgotten.

A Shared Mission of Compassion

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Singapore Maritime Officers' Union (SMOU), Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC), Jurong Fishery Port (JFP), our volunteers, donors, and every partner who helped make this event possible.

Be Part of the Mission

The need continues long after one outreach event. Every ship visit, every conversation, every volunteer, and every donation helps us continue caring for the seafarers and fishermen who keep global trade moving and help provide food for our nation. Every visit, every conversation, and every act of kindness makes a lasting difference in the lives of seafarers and fishermen serving in Singapore.

Here's how you can partner with us:

Adopt a Vessel for S$100 per year
Volunteer with us as a Ship Visitor / Driver
Stand with us in prayer for the safety, well-being, and spiritual growth of seafarers and fishermen.