VOINews, Japan: The Indonesian Ambassador to Japan, Heri Akhmadi, emphasized that the presence of the KRI Bima Suci tall ship in Japan is a symbol of the strong diplomatic relationship between Indonesia and Japan. The visit of the naval ship also serves as a reflection of the two nations’ shared commitment to regional peace and security.
“The presence of KRI Bima Suci in Japan is a clear marker of the robust diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Japan. It also represents our joint determination to maintain regional security and foster mutual understanding between nations,” Ambassador Heri stated in Tokyo on Saturday.
He made this statement during a reception aboard the KRI Bima Suci, which was docked at the Naval Base Yokosuka, Kanagawa, on Thursday, October 3. The ship's visit drew attention from both Japanese officials and foreign dignitaries.
Chief of Staff Headquarters Yokosuka District, Kanezashi Motoyuki, expressed his admiration for the Indonesian tall ship, remarking on its impressive design and cultural significance. “Japan doesn’t have a ship like this, so I’m impressed that Indonesia owns such a magnificent vessel. Thank you for the invitation tonight, and we look forward to enhancing our cooperation with the Indonesian Navy,” Kanezashi said.
The event also saw the attendance of Yokosuka City Mayor Kamiji Katsuaki and Chief of Yokosuka Coast Guard, Rear Admiral ETANI Osamu, along with defense attachés from several countries, including the United States, China, the United Kingdom, and the Philippines.
During the occasion, Rear Admiral Supardi, Governor of the Indonesian Naval Academy (AAL), addressed the cadets and crew of KRI Bima Suci, emphasizing the importance of discipline and dedication during their training voyage. His speech underscored the significance of their role in representing Indonesia on the global stage.
Commander of KRI Bima Suci, Lieutenant Colonel (Navy) Hastaria Dwi Prakoso, who also serves as the commander of the 2024 Kartika Jala Krida task force, highlighted that the ship acts not only as a training vessel but also as a cultural and tourism ambassador for Indonesia. “This voyage serves to fulfill one of the roles of the Indonesian Navy, which is diplomacy. KRI Bima Suci represents the Navy and the nation. Throughout the journey, we also serve as cultural and tourism ambassadors,” he explained.
KRI Bima Suci plays a vital role in providing practical training for cadets from the Naval Academy (AAL), particularly in advanced navigation, including celestial navigation and great-circle sailing. The ship’s mission is part of the Kartika Jala Krida program, which serves as the culmination of their training.
In addition to its role in naval education, KRI Bima Suci showcases Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage during its visits to foreign countries. The ship is the pride of the Indonesian Navy and a successor to the legendary KRI Dewaruci. At each port of call, the crew and cadets introduce traditional Indonesian arts and culture.
During the reception aboard the ship, AAL cadets performed the Gandrung dance, a traditional dance from Banyuwangi, as the opening act. Other performances included the Saman dance, Piring dance, Rampak Gendang, Kecak dance, and a dance from Papua, captivating the audience with Indonesia’s diverse cultural expressions.
The highlight of the evening came when guests joined in the traditional poco-poco dance from Maluku, led by the cadets. Sergeant Fika Nuria, one of the cadets, expressed her pride in being able to showcase Indonesian culture abroad. “I am thrilled to dance and entertain our guests. It makes me proud to introduce Indonesian art and culture to the world, even though it means being far from family and friends back home. My family’s support gives me strength to succeed in this mission. To all the women in Indonesia who aspire to join the Navy’s Women’s Corps, keep pushing forward with determination and spirit,” she said./ANTARA/VOI
