Kodaeral IX Ambon Introduces Students to Maritime Defence

AMBON (ANTARA) – The Indonesian Navy’s Regional Naval Command IX (Kodaeral IX) introduced 84 students from SMP Negeri 26 Maluku to maritime affairs and the history of naval defence during an educational visit to its headquarters in Ambon on Tuesday.

“ This visit provides students with an opportunity to learn outside the classroom about the duties of the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), the function of patrol vessels, and the importance of safeguarding security and sovereignty in Indonesia’s maritime territory,” Kodaeral IX Commander Rear Admiral Hanarko Djodi Pamungkas said.

During the visit, the students toured the Navy vessels KAL Alkura and KAL Panana, which are part of Kodaeral IX’s Patrol Ship Unit (Satrol). They were briefed on the vessels’ functions, patrol activities and the role of Navy units in securing the waters.

The students were also introduced to the bridge, the main space for controlling a vessel’s movement and navigation. There, they learned about the duties of the commander and crew, the use of navigation and radar equipment, and the communications systems that support operations at sea.

In addition to learning about maritime defence assets, the group visited a historic bunker at Kodaeral IX headquarters.

“ The students were given an account of battles during the Second World War, including the presence of Japanese and Allied forces in the area, as well as the bunker’s function as a defence and shelter facility during the war,” Hanarko said.

The visit gave students an understanding of the links between Indonesia’s geography as an archipelagic nation, the need to secure its waters and the development of defence history in Maluku.

Through hands-on learning, students are expected not only to understand the technology and operations of Indonesian Navy vessels, but also to deepen their maritime awareness and appreciate the historical significance of efforts to defend Indonesia’s territory.

Kodaeral IX said the activity forms part of its support for young people’s education, particularly by introducing Indonesia’s maritime potential and the Navy’s role in protecting national maritime security and sovereignty.

Kodaeral IX Ambon is also strengthening cooperation with Maluku Customs to prevent customs violations and safeguard maritime security in the province.

Co-operation between agencies is needed to support the monitoring of waters and protect national interests from various forms of maritime violation.