Strengthening Indonesia's Maritime Sovereignty, PTK Raises Red and White Flag Underwater

PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental (PTK) held an underwater flag-hoisting ceremony for the Red and White Flag to commemorate the 81st Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Indonesia. At a depth of 12 metres in the waters of Pulisan Beach, North Sulawesi, skilled Pertamina divers hoisted the Sang Saka Merah Putih as an expression of nationalism and a tribute to Indonesia as a maritime nation.

The underwater ceremony was a form of synergy between PTK, PT Pertamina Patra Niaga (PPN), and PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), involving the Board of Directors, 26 Pertamina officer divers, 10 local divers, the regional government, and the local environmental community. The entire procession was conducted solemnly while prioritising diving safety standards.

Acting President Director of PT Pertamina Trans Kontinental, Eko Cahyadi, said that the commemoration of Indonesia’s Independence Day was a momentum for PTK to present concrete actions aligned with the company’s role as a provider of maritime energy logistics services.

“Hoisting the Red and White Flag underwater is a symbol of our love for Indonesia as a maritime nation. As a company that grows and operates at sea, we interpret the spirit of independence by fostering awareness from all parties to jointly protect the sea as a national heritage,” said Eko, quoted from his statement on Monday, 17 August 2026.

The series of events was also combined with the transplantation of 512 coral fragments by Pertamina divers at Pulisan Beach. This is a concrete commitment by PTK to enhance sustainability within the marine ecosystem.

“Pulisan Beach is part of the Coral Triangle area, which has very high marine biodiversity. In addition, this area is also located around the operational area of the Pertamina Group, particularly the Integrated Terminal Bitung, which is one of the energy distribution facilities in Sulawesi. Therefore, planting coral fragments at this location is a form of PTK’s commitment to maintaining the health of the marine ecosystem that serves as our operational space while supporting the company’s business sustainability,” explained Eko.

Through this action, PTK seeks to maintain the sustainability of the marine ecosystem, which is an important element in the company’s operations.