BATAM (gokepri) – The Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) and the United States (US) inaugurated the “Anambas” Maritime Training Center building in Batam City, Riau Islands, on Monday.
Head of Bakamla, Vice Admiral Irvansyah, stated that the training center was the result of cooperation between his side and the US to support security and safety of maritime areas in Indonesia.
“Therefore, we are committed to always maintaining the safety of Indonesia’s seas from all forms of law violations and providing a sense of security to sea users,” he remarked.
According to Irvansyah, construction of the maritime training center was in line with Bakamla’s vision and mission to establish an educational unit or Coast Guard academy.
“This training center can help us to independently increase our capacity according to our own needs,” he remarked.
Irvansyah stated that the maritime training center being constructed with funding of US$5 million by the US Bureau of International Narcotics Affairs and Law Enforcement (INL) has six classrooms, conference rooms, dormitories, offices, and simulator equipment.
Moreover, the maritime training center in Batam City is not only intended for Bakamla personnel but other ministries and institutions related to maritime security and safety are also welcome to use the facility, he remarked.
Meanwhile, Chargé d’Affaires Ad Interim of the US Embassy in Indonesia, Michael F. Kleine, stated that the maritime training center aims to build a culture of professionalism and develop a platform to invite other parties to collaborate.
“We will make Indonesia a leader to respond to maritime challenges in the future,” he emphasized.
In addition, Kleine affirmed that the two parties had established maritime cooperation, including programs to protect coastal and fishing communities, science and technology cooperation in the maritime sector, and port development.
“America and Indonesia are also working together to combat and prevent smuggling activities, such as illegal fishing, that are not reported and not regulated in Indonesia,” he stated.
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