VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

VOINews, Jakarta - Indonesia and the Netherlands strengthened cooperation in the maritime sector through the 5th Bilateral Maritime Forum (BMF) on Monday.

The forum focused on three issues: sustainable port development and renewable maritime energy, sustainable shipbuilding, and maritime education, Deputy for the Coordination of Maritime Sovereignty and Energy at the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Jodi Mahardi, informed at the RI-Netherlands BMF here.

"The BMF aims to strengthen mutual benefits for both countries by discussing three priority sectors," he said.

He added that the Indonesian government is highly interested in advancing sustainable port infrastructure and developing renewable energy sources such as tidal, hydrogen, and wind power.

"Our goals in the port development include realizing world-class transportation, improving the logistics ecosystem and the supply chain, while protecting the environment, so that infrastructure and technology development go hand in hand," he said.

According to Mahardi, Indonesia's shipbuilding cooperation with the Netherlands has extraordinary potential, considering Indonesia's skilled workforce in technology.

"Therefore, collaboration like this can enhance our flagship shipbuilding industry," he added.

The partnership also presents investment opportunities for both countries, he added.

Development in the shipbuilding industry can boost economic growth in the Indonesian regions that are underserved in terms of maritime infrastructure, he said.

"Our collaboration has resulted in Mini LNG vessels, Draggers, Navy warships, and many more. With the appropriate funding, we are ready to strengthen our collaboration," he said.

He stressed that maritime education is no less important for advancing technology and sustainable energy goals.

Indonesia has carried out collaborative programs in maritime education, such as student exchanges, scholarships, and internships, he said.

Furthermore, Mahardi invited the Netherlands to invest in concrete projects in Indonesia's maritime sector, which is expected to generate mutually beneficial economic benefits. (Antaranews)