Playful and not interested in study during younger days, it did not help thatMustaffa’s family could not afford to pay for tuition.

He started sailing as a Cadet Officer in 1979.

After O levels, he obtained a Diploma in Nautical Studies. Mustaffa went through the paces at the Singapore Polytechnic to obtain the necessary creditation to achieve a Certificate of Competency, Master Mariner in 1994.

He opted for distant learning so he could work & support his family. The training and constant upgrading helped his career. Not content to rest on his laurels, he persevered for 4 years to complete a law degree. His knowledge of international law is useful for his work at sea.