Safeguarding the Health of Our Maritime Heroes: NIA Hosts Free Medical and Haircut Services for Foreign Crew Members
- Date：
- Source：Border Affairs Corps
- Hit：122
- Updated date：2025-07-14
Every summer, Donggang becomes a bustling hub for Taiwan’s tuna fishing season—also marking the busiest time of year for the “maritime heroes” who work tirelessly at sea. To support the health and well-being of these foreign crew members, the Kaohsiung Port Border Affairs Brigade, Border Affairs Corps of the National Immigration Agency (NIA) joined forces with the Tzu Chi International Medical Association, the Pingtung County Public Health Bureau, the Donggang Fishermen’s Association, the Fisheries Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture, the Pingtung Mobile Health Promotion and Rehabilitation Association, the Taiwan Tuna Longline Association, and HAPPYHAIR to host a free medical and haircut event on Sunday, July 13, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Donggang Fishermen’s Association.The event welcomed 81 foreign crew members from Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and other countries. A wide range of free services was provided, including traditional Chinese medicine (acupuncture included), Western medicine, ophthalmology, dentistry, physical therapy, mobile home care, and haircuts. Health checks such as blood pressure and glucose testing, abdominal ultrasounds, electrocardiograms (ECGs), and lifestyle health consultations were also available.
For the first time, the Pingtung County Public Health Bureau participated by deploying its "Mobile Rehabilitation Vehicle," which significantly expanded the on-site physical therapy and mobile healthcare capabilities, creating a more comprehensive medical service offering.
Foreign crew members often face harsh working conditions—prolonged exposure to sun and rain, and physically demanding labor—leading to chronic fatigue, dental issues, and vision problems. Due to the nature of their work, they rarely have the opportunity to seek medical care. Through this initiative, Tzu Chi's medical team, along with 97 dedicated volunteers, provided much-needed care. Additionally, 29 new immigrants volunteered as interpreters, offering language support in Indonesian, Filipino, and Vietnamese to ensure clear communication and accurate medical advice.
In addition to healthcare services, a free haircut station was set up, allowing crew members to refresh their appearance before returning to sea. The NIA also organized an anti-human trafficking awareness session at the venue, providing legal information and resources to help foreign crew members understand their rights and how to seek help when needed.
To show further care and support, the Taiwan Tuna Longline Association offered complimentary meal boxes, helping crew members recharge after their checkups and feel the warmth of community care.
NIA Director-General Horng-En Lin emphasized that foreign crew members play a vital role in Taiwan’s deep-sea fishing industry. This event not only delivered essential healthcare services but also fostered a more compassionate and supportive environment for these workers. By integrating resources from the government, NGOs, and private sector medical teams, the initiative exemplifies the power of cross-sector collaboration. The NIA plans to continue holding similar events in the future to safeguard the health and well-being of foreign crew members working in Taiwan.
Related Picture(s)
The National Immigration Agency provides free medical services for foreign crew members.
Volunteer hairstylists give foreign crew members a fresh new look before they head back to sea.
The NIA conducts outreach on human trafficking prevention and anti-fraud awareness for foreign crew members.