Singapore to launch SEAVAX for eligible foreign sea crew

This was announced by Chee Hong Tat at this year’s International Safety@Sea Week.

Chee Hong Tat announced yesterday in his opening speech for the International Safety@Sea Week that Singapore will be launching SEAVAX or Sea Crew Vaccination Initiative for non-resident foreign sea crew.

Those eligible for the initiative include sea crew in Singapore who stay longer than 30 days and those who are on board vessels that cover essential services and enter at least once a month. 

Pfizer-Biontech/Comirnaty and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines will be offered to those covered by the program with costs being shouldered by the company or individual.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), Singapore Food Agency (SFA), and Singapore Tourism Board (STB), will be in charge of contacting companies covered by the agreement over the coming weeks.

Companies that fall under the category but have eligible workers and have not been contacted by 30 September can send in requests for vaccinations, as well as supporting documentation. For yachts, ship supply, and regional vessels, the MPA can be contacted at vaccinate@mpa.gov.sg, whilst fishing vessels can contact SFA at SFA_FET@sfa.gov.sg. 

In his speech, Chee also noted that more than 90% of Singapore’s maritime workers have been fully vaccinated. 89% of the 7,500 seafarers working in the country’s port waters have received their first dose, with 82% being fully vaccinated.