The country’s first two Omani tug-masters, Thabit al Alawi and Sameeh al Rasadi, felicitated by local marine services provider Khimji’s Sparkle at a recent ceremony. Thabit and Sameeh are currently serving on board the tugboats Dorat Al Behar, Ameerat Al Behar, and Zahrat Al Behar at Asyad Drydock in Duqm.
The tugs stationed at Asyad Drydock handle some of the world’s largest oil tankers, gas tankers, ore carriers, container ships, aircraft carriers and submarines, amongst other vessels.
Over the past seven years, both Sameeh and Thabit were given extensive on-the-job training at Duqm and at the Ocean’s Sparkle Tug Simulator Training Center in India. In the simulator, the tug masters faced various scenarios that included bad weather, engine failure, heavy waves and wind conditions. Such simulations contributed towards enhancing their skills and competencies in handling large vessels and maneuvering them into the dry dock.
Commenting on this achievement, Pankaj Khimji, Director, Khimji’s Sparkle Marine Services said: “We believe that the youth are the building blocks for a bright future for Oman. Our objectives resonate with the national priorities and the goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040 that aim to create a pool of highly skilled Omani talents. We are delighted with what Sameeh and Thabit have accomplished and admire their persistence and hard work. Realizing this dream would not have been possible without the continuous support of our strategic partners, Asyad Drydock and Ocean’s Sparkle.” Expressing his delight at this accomplishment, Dr Ibrahim al Nadhairi, Chief Executive Officer of Asyad Shipping and Drydock, said: “I would like to congratulate both Sameeh and Thabit on earning the title of ‘Tug Masters’. This is a laudable achievement that highlights their capability to take on higher leadership roles. We also commend the efforts exerted by Khimji’s Sparkle team in providing the necessary training for them and giving the Omani youth more opportunities to excel in their fields and lead the Sultanate toward a vibrant future.” Khimji’s Sparkle Marine Services is a joint venture between Khimji Ramdas Shipping in Oman and Ocean Sparkle International Company. The company’s activities include port management services, pilotage, operation of radio control stations and mooring services.
