Indonesia Expands Maritime Talent for Global Industry Transformation

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, Brian Yuliarto, affirmed that the country needs maritime professionals who are capable of meeting the challenges of the global maritime industry’s transformation. He said technological expertise must be complemented by leadership, integrity, and the ability to adapt to an increasingly complex world.

Brian delivered the remarks during his keynote address at the Open Senate Session of the Jakarta College of Maritime Studies (STIP Jakarta) on Wednesday July 15, 2026. He noted that global challenges including climate change, food security, migration, and artificial intelligence require human resources capable of integrating science, technology, ethics, and public policy to develop solutions that benefit society.

“This is the challenge of our time: ensuring that knowledge does not remain merely a discourse, but becomes a solution. This is where higher education plays a crucial role as a source of knowledge, a center of innovation, and a place where character is shaped to ensure that knowledge serves humanity,” he said.

The Minister stressed that Indonesia’s strategic geographic position as the world’s largest archipelagic nation makes the maritime sector a key pillar of national development. Therefore, he said, the country needs world-class maritime professionals who are not only skilled in operating advanced technologies but are also capable of leading innovation across the maritime industry.

Referring to the theme “Seafarers as Leaders in Maritime Technology,” Brian said leadership is just as essential as technological competence in the maritime sector. He explained that future leaders must be able to make sound decisions under uncertainty, build trust, think critically, collaborate effectively, and uphold integrity.

“Technology will never replace leadership. When storms strike, communication is disrupted, and decisions must be made within seconds, it is not algorithms or artificial intelligence that determine the outcome it is human judgment,” he said.

Brian also encouraged STIP graduates to become guardians of the environment as the global maritime industry increasingly embraces green shipping practices. He called on future maritime officers to contribute to reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, preventing marine pollution, and preserving marine ecosystems for future generations.

Through its Impactful Campus policy, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology continues to encourage universities to produce practical solutions through research and innovation. Brian emphasized that STIP graduates must combine scientific and technological expertise with professional ethics, integrity, and humility to become maritime leaders capable of advancing Indonesia’s competitiveness on the global stage.