Statendam‘s Foreman Engine Robert Feber Gosal recently celebrated 20 years with HAL! A service award ceremony was held to commemorate this special occasion and present him with his award. Below is a fun Q & A with Robert. Congratulations!

From left: Foreman Engine Robert Feber Gosal and Master Albert Jan Schoonderbeek.

How long have you been with the company?
20 years.

What ships have you been on?
All of the ships, except Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam.

What brought you to sea – why did you start to work on the ships?
I went to marine school and half way through I decided to start looking for a job at sea. In 1975 I started working on cargo ships, oil bunkers, containers and tanker ships. I officially joined HAL in 1992.

What is one of the things you like best about working on the ships?
It helps me to fulfill my obligations back home financially, plus I love to travel!

What is one of the most memorable experiences you have from working on the ships?
The most memorable experience was when I worked with a Japanese company, because I would have the opportunity to cross the South China Sea and would even get to see typhoons frequently. I also enjoyed the religious services that were provided for the crew every Sunday.

Name one place you would like to go?
Easter Island. I’ve been there three times already, but I’d love to go again.

What does a Foreman Engine do?
My responsibilities include overlooking the engine room and marshaling area and making sure everyone is performing well and doing their job safely.

What do you take pride in?
The fact that I have been able to travel around the world and visit many different places.

What are some of your past accomplishments?
Being able to manage many men in their careers and teach them how to remain healthy and safe.

Where is home?
Jakarta, Indonesia.

Family?
I have a wife, Ellis Rosair Gurning and three children from my first marriage.

What are your hobbies?
Reading and playing chess.

What is your motto in life?
Live to make your parents proud.

What advice would you give to a new employee?
Stay active on the job. Always follow the rules and make sure you are always being safe. Do not cause problems and always think of your family at home.

If you could have a super power, what would it be?
I would like to be able to help as many people as possible.

Verlie Michelle Nelson is Statendam’s human resources manager.