Mujahid Al-Ibenu Marks Day of the Seafarer, Highlights Role of Mariners in Global Trade
As the global maritime community commemorated the Day of the Seafarer, mariner and research journalist Mujahid Al-Ibenu paid tribute to seafarers across the world, describing mariners as the silent backbone of global commerce and indispensable drivers of international trade.
In his message marking the occasion, Al-Ibenu emphasised that global trade remains heavily dependent on the maritime sector, with sailors and seafarers playing critical roles in sustaining supply chains, facilitating international commerce, and ensuring the uninterrupted movement of goods across continents.
According to Al-Ibenu, more than 80 percent of global trade by volume is transported through sea routes, making the contribution of mariners central to global economic growth, trade stability, and international development.
“Mariners remain among the most strategic yet underappreciated professionals in the global economy,” Al-Ibenu stated. “From energy transportation to food supply chains and industrial logistics, the work of seafarers remains vital to the functioning of modern society.”
He noted that despite the strategic importance of the profession, sailors often operate under demanding conditions, including extended periods away from family, occupational hazards, security risks, and the mental demands associated with life at sea.
Reflecting on his professional journey, Al-Ibenu expressed deep appreciation to the maritime institutions and professionals who contributed to his academic and professional development, particularly in Pakistan.
He commended both the Pakistan Marine Academy and the Maritime Training Institute, Karachi, praising the institutions for their commitment to maritime excellence, discipline, and globally competitive professional training standards.
Al-Ibenu specifically acknowledged Captain Rashid Anwer, his instructor and Principal Officer of MTI, who formerly served as Director of ISPS at Pakistan’s Ministry of Maritime Affairs, for his exemplary leadership and significant contributions to maritime education and security. He also recognised Captain Muhammad Iqbal, Senior Nautical Instructor, Captain Afzal Shaikh, Head of Nautical, Muzammil Khan, and Dr. Syed Ahmed Mahmoodi, Director of the Maritime Training Institute, Karachi, for their continued dedication to developing future maritime professionals.
He further extended appreciation to the academy’s staff, officers, instructors, and cadets, noting that the institution continues to play an important role in producing competent maritime professionals for the global shipping industry.
“The academy gave me valuable professional training, discipline, and exposure that continue to shape my maritime career,” Al-Ibenu said. “I remain proud to be associated with the institution as an alumnus.”
He added that institutions and nations that invest in people ultimately shape the future, stressing that such investments create a moral responsibility on beneficiaries to give back meaningfully.
“A country or institution that has given so much deserves appreciation,” he said. “It is the responsibility of he who has received to give back in service, in value, and in contribution.”
Al-Ibenu also expressed gratitude for the hospitality and support he received during his time in Pakistan, describing the country as one that offered him warmth, respect, and meaningful professional relationships.
Among those he acknowledged were Dr. Syeda Rehana and her husband Mr. Aziz of the Pakistan People’s Party Women Wing for their goodwill and support; Istaiq Baiq, Consul General of Morocco, for his warmth and hospitality; Dr. Noor Hussein; Engr. Taimul Ali Siyal; Jameshed Hussein, Chairman of the Pakistan Human Rights Council; Suraya Bibi, Deputy Speaker of the Provincial Assembly of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; and Abdul Moiz, Executive Director of Peace Youth and Leadership.
According to Al-Ibenu, his experiences in Pakistan reinforced his belief in the importance of international collaboration, cultural understanding, and strategic global partnerships within the maritime sector.
He further stressed that maritime education must continue evolving to meet modern global demands, particularly in areas such as maritime security, digital navigation, sustainability, and international shipping operations.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve amid growing global challenges, Al-Ibenu maintained that greater investment in maritime education and seafarer welfare remains essential for the future of global trade.
He argued that recognising and supporting mariners is critical not only for the maritime industry but also for the long-term resilience of the global economy.
“As we celebrate seafarers around the world, we must recognise their sacrifice, resilience, and immense contribution to humanity,” he said. “The world moves because mariners keep global trade moving.”
Al-Ibenu expressed optimism about the future of the maritime industry and reaffirmed his commitment to advancing maritime development, professional excellence, and stronger international collaboration within the sector.
