Indonesia, US Inaugurate Maritime Training Center in Batam

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The U.S. Embassy in Jakarta and the head of the Indonesian  Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) inaugurated the Anambas Maritime Training Center in Batam. The inauguration was conducted by Chargé d'Affaires ad interim of the US Embassy Michael F. Kleine along with Bakamla head Vice Admiral Irvansyah.

"This marked an important achievement in US and Indonesia's maritime cooperation. In four years since its first groundbreaking, this training center will improve Indonesia's maritime capabilities and strengthen its role as a world-leading force against domestic and transnational crimes," Kleine said.

On the other hand, Irvansyah believed the Batam training center would push for future advanced and secure sea for Indonesia, in addition to training areas for seamen.

The construction of the Maritime Training Center, funded by the U.S. Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INL), spent US$1.5 million. The comprehensive training center includes six classrooms, a conference room, and offices.

Earlier, the first phase of development was finalized in June 2022, with an allotted budget of US$700,000 for a dining space and barrack that could house up to 50 students and 12 instructors. The first phase was funded by the US Indo-Pacific Command’s Joint Interagency Task Force West. The second was supported by the US Coast Guard (USCG) and the US Naval Facilities Engineering Command.

The opening class of Small Boat Operator Instructor runs for two weeks with 16 Bakamla students to prepare Bakamla instructors to train its personnel in the future. The training center is intended to develop Indonesia's capability to ensure safety and security in Indonesian waters.

SUCI SEKARWATI

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