Hanafi died suddenly last night in Tokyo, where he was part of the ITF delegation representing the world’s seafarers and dockers at a meeting of the International Baragaining Forum (IBF). Hanafi was 72 years old.
ITF president Paddy Crumlin stated: “Farewell brother Hanafi, small in stature and giant at heart. Seafarer, trade unionist, labour leader and internationalist. Much loved. Man of humour, deep faith and family. Now at rest after Fighting from the Front to his last.”
ITF general secretary Steve Cotton added: “It feels unbelievable that such a vibrant and ever-fighting personality is no longer with us. We grieve for him, and for his family, friends and union members. Hanafi was a battler for what he believed in. Right to the end he never deviated from that path.”
Full statements of remembrance from Paddy Crumlin, Steve Cotton and Joe Fleetwood, general secretary of MUNZ, the Maritime Union of New Zealand, can be found at https://goo.gl/FxCQeT.
In memoriam, Hanafi Rustandi
news
Press Release
ON THE GROUND
news
Press Release
ITF welcomes return of Safe Rates in South Korea – strong enforcement, further expansion needed
The implementation of Safe Rates for container and bulk cement transport in Korea marks an important step towards improving fair pay, good jobs and road safety for truck drivers. The International
news
Press Release
Seafarers, unions and maritime industry leaders unite at MILAAP ITF Seafarers’ Expo 2026
Landmark event for seafarers opens, Indian Government announces new support for seafarers Indian seafarers are set to benefit from a raft of new initiatives to support them in their maritime careers
news
Press Release
Seafarers to take centre stage as thousands set to gather in Mumbai for ITF Seafarers’ Expo
The International Transport Workers’ Federation, alongside maritime unions from India, is bringing a major international seafarers’ event to India with the 2026 ITF Seafarers’ Expo, taking place this