Strengthening Diplomacy, Navy Chief Launches KRI Bima Suci Voyage to 8 Countries
“Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is a virtue,” wrote the philosopher Baruch Spinoza.
The Indonesian Navy has once again dispatched the nation’s pride, the tall-masted sailing ship KRI Bima Suci-945, on a diplomatic goodwill sailing mission titled Kartika Jala Krida (KJK) 2026. This international mission aims to strengthen inter-country relations while sharpening the diplomatic capabilities of prospective young officers in the Asia-Pacific region.
Navy Chief of Staff (KSAL) Admiral TNI Muhammad Ali personally saw off the ship’s departure at the Military Sea Transportation Command (Kolinlamil) Pier in North Jakarta on Tuesday (31/3). The ship is scheduled to undertake a 124-day journey.
International Collaboration
On this voyage, KRI Bima Suci is not only carrying internal TNI AL personnel but also serves as a platform for international interaction through the ASEAN Plus Cadet Sail (APCS) programme.
“KRI Bima Suci is carrying 79 second-year cadets from the 73rd batch of the Naval Academy (AAL). In addition, there are 52 delegate participants from the ASEAN Plus Cadet Sail (APCS) programme from 24 friendly countries, ranging from Australia, China, Canada, to representatives from European and African countries,” said Ali in his statement on Wednesday (1/4).
While traversing a distance of 16,877 nautical miles, the cadets will deepen their technical competencies such as great circle navigation and astronomy. However, the diplomatic aspect remains the primary priority.
“This voyage teaches them how to engage in diplomacy with the foreign navies visited. Coincidentally, cadets from friendly countries are also joining this sailing, so direct interactions are already built on board the ship,” added Ali.
Route Adjustments
In response to the escalation of global tensions in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions, the TNI AL has taken preventive measures by making significant route changes to ensure the safety of personnel.
The initial plan, which included visits to Egypt, Spain, and the United States, has been cancelled. Instead, the route is now focused on stability in the Asia-Pacific region, encompassing:
Ali emphasised that the selection of the new route has undergone thorough study and cross-sectoral coordination. “We have coordinated with the Foreign Ministry, Ambassadors, and Naval Attachés there. We ensure that the visited routes are to countries deemed safe for personnel and materiel,” concluded Ali.