Minister: Indonesia Needs Superior Human Resources in Maritime Technology

Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto has emphasised that Indonesia requires human resources in the maritime technology field who possess leadership character, integrity, and the ability to adapt to the global maritime industry’s transformation. Speaking during a scientific oration at the Jakarta Maritime Institute (STIP) open senate session on Wednesday, the minister explained that the world is currently facing increasingly complex and interconnected issues, ranging from climate change and food security to migration and the development of artificial intelligence. He assessed that these conditions demand human resources capable of integrating science, technology, ethics, and policy to produce solutions that have an impact on society. Minister Brian noted that given Indonesia’s highly strategic geographical position, the sea is viewed as the nation’s future, as well as a source of economy, food, energy, and defence. Therefore, he asserted that Indonesia needs world-class maritime human resources who are not only capable of operating ships but also become leaders who bring innovation to the maritime sector. According to him, a leader is someone who is ready to take responsibility, able to make decisions under conditions of great uncertainty, maintain team trust, continuously learn, and possess critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and integrity skills. “I also want to remind you of one thing: technology never replaces leadership. When a storm comes, when communication is disrupted, when a decision must be made in a matter of seconds, it is not the algorithm or AI that decides, it is still the human,” said Minister Brian. He invited graduates to become officers who care for the environment in line with the growing practice of green shipping. Sea transport officers are expected to play a role in reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, preventing marine pollution, and maintaining the sustainability of marine ecosystems for future generations. The minister affirmed that STIP graduates need to combine mastery of science and technology with integrity and professional ethics. This combination will shape professional officers as well as maritime leaders capable of bringing progress to Indonesia. “The higher the knowledge and position you hold, the humbler your attitude should be. On board a ship, leadership is not built by rank alone, but far more importantly by setting an example,” said Brian Yuliarto.