Seamen struck by cruel waves of Covid-19

DURING this Covid-19 pandemic, the performance of healthcare workers, the police, soldiers and e-hailing drivers has been really outstanding. The people appreciate their sacrifices and would always remember their courage for standing at the front lines in the fight against the pandemic.

But there is another group of people who have also been working tirelessly, moving cargo safely from one country to another while people stayed at home to stay safe.

Sadly, not many people are aware of their plight. That’s because we are at sea. That’s right, there are thousands of sailors stranded onboard vessels now. Due to Covid-19, some of them have been onboard for more than nine months. Most of you leave for work in the morning and expect to go home by evening. These guys also expected to go home after a few months but due to the pandemic and various travel bans, they are stuck onboard.

Can you imagine going to work one day and not being able to go home? Can you imagine not being able to see or hug your child for nine months?

Not only are they onboard for extended periods, they are also expected to perform at peak levels.

An International Labour Organisation (ILO) study has shown that performance can only be sustained for six months. After that, the seaman’s performance will reduce drastically.

Apart from the guys stuck aboard their ships, many more are stranded ashore without any wages. It would be extremely difficult to support themselves and their families. These are good, competent guys who are all ready to board but due to travel restrictions, they remain at home while their fellow seamen remain stressed at sea. There have been numerous suicide cases of sailors who were unable to get home.

We are pleading with the Malaysian authorities to show some mercy on foreign seamen and allow them to join or disembark in Malaysian waters. The maritime sector is an important part of the Malaysian economy. We are grateful that our ships are still trading and that we still have a job. Our plea is that we get to go home and be reunited with our families.

THE CAPTAIN FROM THE KAMPUNG Kuala Lumpur (Writer is currently aboard ship)