NUSPM Intensifies Efforts to Repatriate Five Malaysian Seafarers Stranded in UAE
PETALING JAYA: The National Union of Seafarers of Peninsular Malaysia (NUSPM) has reaffirmed that securing the welfare and safe return of five Malaysian seafarers stranded at Hamriyah Port in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remains its foremost priority as efforts continue to facilitate their repatriation.
NUSPM secretary Ikmal Azam Thanaraj Abdullah said the union remains actively engaged with the relevant authorities to ensure the affected seafarers receive the assistance they require while arrangements are made for their return to Malaysia.
He also expressed disappointment over what he described as the continued silence of Shapadu regarding the welfare of the five seafarers, saying those affected, together with their families, deserve regular updates, humanitarian support and clear commitments from all parties involved.
According to Ikmal, NUSPM has been working closely with the Director-General of the Marine Department to accelerate the repatriation process, with both parties continuing efforts beyond their respective responsibilities to help resolve the situation as quickly as possible.
As part of its ongoing humanitarian assistance, NUSPM, together with the Seafarers Welfare and Protection Fund (KWPPL), has provided financial aid to help ease the burden faced by the families of the stranded crew members.
He said KWPPL has also maintained regular communication with the families by providing updates on developments, offering emotional support and ensuring they remain informed throughout the repatriation process.
To further advance efforts to bring the seafarers home, NUSPM and the Director-General of the Marine Department are planning to visit the vessel on 15 July.
The proposed visit is intended to facilitate direct discussions with the relevant parties involved, with the objective of resolving outstanding issues and expediting the return of the five Malaysians.
Ikmal said the union remains committed to pursuing every available avenue to ensure the repatriation process can be completed without unnecessary delay.
He stressed that safeguarding the welfare of Malaysian seafarers, both at home and abroad, remains one of NUSPM’s core responsibilities, particularly in cases involving prolonged hardship or uncertainty.
The union also reiterated its commitment to working alongside government agencies and industry stakeholders to ensure the affected crew members receive the necessary support until they are safely reunited with their families in Malaysia.
