Even more horrified, Indonesia and the US are now establishing maritime cooperation

Mytips.id, NEWS - The United States and Indonesia have embarked on a close collaboration in the field of maritime security with the inauguration of the US-funded Maritime Training Center in Batam, Riau Islands Province on Monday, January 29, 2024. 

"Today marks a significant achievement in maritime cooperation between Indonesia and the United States. Over the course of four years since the construction of this training center began, it is hoped that it will enhance Indonesia's maritime capabilities and strengthen Indonesia's role as a leader in combatting both domestic and transnational crimes," said Michael F. Kleine, the Chargé d'Affaires of the US Embassy in Indonesia, during his speech at the inauguration ceremony of the "Anambas" Maritime Training Center on Monday.

In his address, Rear Admiral Irvansyah of the Indonesian Coast Guard (Bakamla) agreed that the Anambas Maritime Training Center represents a historic milestone in Indonesia-US friendship. 

"Together, we are not just training sailors but also strengthening the bonds between our countries, promoting progress and maritime security for a safe and prosperous future," said Irvansyah.

Funded by the US Department of State's International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), the $1.5 million construction of the Maritime Training Center marks the completion of the second phase of cooperation in Batam. The comprehensive training center includes six classrooms, a conference room, and offices.

The first phase of the project was completed in June 2022, encompassing dining facilities as well as dormitories for male and female students, capable of accommodating up to 50 students and 12 instructors. Both phases of the project received support from the US Coast Guard (USCG) and the US Navy Facilities Engineering Command.

During the ceremony, Kleine and Rear Admiral Irvansyah pressed the siren button, symbolizing the official start of operations at the Maritime Training Center. 

They also took the time to visit the facility. Shortly after the opening, 16 Bakamla personnel became the first students at the Center. The first cohort will undergo a two-week Small Boat Operator Instructor Training Session. 

This training, facilitated by the USCG, aims to prepare Bakamla instructors to train future Bakamla personnel. These enhanced skills will further develop Indonesia's ability to ensure safety and security in its maritime waters.

The inauguration of the Training Center follows the signing of the Bilateral Maritime Security Work Plan on November 8, 2023, which aims to direct INL capacity-building assistance towards increasing Indonesia's awareness of maritime domains and law enforcement at sea.

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