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The first time Assistant Hydrographer Jolene Chew
went out to sea on the “Mata Ikan”,
she could hardly wait to board the hydrographic
vessel.
Now, 10 months into her job, the bright-eyed scholar
from the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore
(MPA) enjoys carrying out hydrographic work onboard,
keeping her eyes peeled for changes in the sea that
can compromise the safety of mariners.
Jolene ensures that mariners have the latest nautical
information to sail unhindered by regularly surveying
and charting Singapore’s waters.
Her department produces charts of the depth of surrounding
waters to make sure that vessels do not go aground,
hit a sudden high spot and sink or leak, or get
lost. These charts also help mariners to enter the
port safely.
Another important task for her is maintaining aids
for navigation such as buoys, beacons and lighthouses
in tip-top condition so that mariners can see certain
landmarks and know where they are.
Said Jolene, who is fast learning the ropes: “It
is really quite interesting to go out to sea, form
friendships with the crew and learn new things.
Plus, all my colleagues have much to teach me.”
Another learning experience for Jolene was a recent
conference organised by the International Hydrographic
Organisation (IHO). Held in Monaco, the event brought
together high-level officials from 65 countries
around the globe.
Jolene attended the conference as part of the Singapore
delegation. Being the youngest in the team, she
appreciated the chance to watch her more experienced
colleagues in action.
“I was able to see my colleagues at work,
renewing old and forming new ties, networking and
talking to more people to exchange ideas on the
latest hydrograhic developments,” she said.
Although she was a newcomer, she played a key role
in the preparation work during the months leading
up to the conference. It was critical for the team
to be fully prepared to present Singapore’s
views on the issues that were discussed.
“Every country had the responsibility to make
sure its views were heard. For us, it wasn’t
too difficult because Singapore has been active
in IHO and we had the credentials,” she said,
happy with the outcome.
Although in her younger days, Jolene had never considered
pursuing a career related to the sea, she is glad
about how things have turned out for her.
“The job is exciting to me because I have
a restless nature. So having the opportunity to
take on a variety of duties in my job appeals to
me,” she said.
“My work is also very challenging. I’m
learning new things every day. And to me, anything
new is really interesting!”
Jolene was also delighted to find that the knowledge
and experience she has gained comes in useful even
when she’s off duty.
“I’m enjoying the sea more and more,”
she said. “When I holiday in Bintan or Tioman,
I appreciate that I know more about the sea now
than before.” |
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