'Dewaruci' set to make waves

SURABAYA: After months in repair, the training ship KRI Dewaruci is set to return to the sea for a round-the-globe journey with a crew of Navy Academy cadets.

Spokesman for the Navy's Eastern Fleet Lt. Col. Giri Suroso Trilaksono told Antara on Wednesday that the German-made ship had undergone a total repair at the state ship company PT PAL here. The overhaul reportedly cost US$16 million.

"The ship has made a trial cruise from Surabaya to Jakarta and is ready to take part in a series of international competitions although the schedule has not been set yet," Giri said.

Made of high quality teakwood, Dewaruci was bought from West Germany in 1953.

It has a hatful of international trophies and awards under its belt since it made its maiden voyage over four decades ago. It last sailed around the world in 2000, during which it took part in an international competition in the United States.

Dewaruci has been declared an historical heritage item. A foundation, which also incorporates people from the U.S, Germany and the Netherlands, has been set up to take care of the ship. -- Antara