Australia-Indonesia Highlight Naval Ties to Bolster Indo-Pacific Stability

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Royal Australian Navy has underscored the importance of its partnership with the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL), framing it as a crucial step toward ensuring a secure and stable Indo-Pacific region.

Commander Alicia Harrison of His Majesty's Australian Ship (HMAS) Toowoomba, which has just docked in Jakarta this week, emphasized Australia’s deep appreciation for its close ties with Indonesia, built on a shared commitment to strengthening maritime security.

“Visits like this allow both nations to shape a common understanding of the Indo-Pacific as a region of dialogue and cooperation,” Harrison said during the welcoming ceremony at Tanjung Priok Port on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

She noted that the partnership aims to foster an Indo-Pacific where sovereign nations can freely make their own choices and where international law is respected.

Harrison expressed confidence that both navies remain committed to advancing collective security through joint exercises, leadership dialogue, and personal exchanges among their personnel.

Beyond shared strategic interests, she highlighted the unique significance of Indonesia-Australia relations, pointing out that the two countries share one of the world’s longest maritime boundaries.

“For that reason, it is vital for our navies to be close maritime partners,” Harrison said.

She also conveyed her gratitude to the Indonesian Navy, particularly Naval Region Command III Jakarta, for the warm reception extended to HMAS Toowoomba. Harrison encouraged her crew to immerse themselves in Indonesian culture during their stay, strengthening bonds of friendship between the two nations.

According to a release from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), the visit is part of its Regional Presence Deployments mission, which began this month. Alongside HMAS Toowoomba, the ADF has also deployed HMAS Warramunga. 

Both warships departed from Western Australia and will make port calls across Southeast Asia, South Asia, and East Asia. ***