KRI Bima Suci Strengthens Indonesia-Japan Maritime Diplomacy in Nagasaki

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The arrival of Indonesia’s tall ship KRI Bima Suci at Dejima Pier in Nagasaki has become a vivid symbol of maritime friendship, underscoring nearly seven decades of cooperation between Indonesia and Japan.

Ambassador Nurmala Kartini Sjahrir, Indonesia’s envoy to Japan, described the visit as a strategic moment to strengthen maritime diplomacy, deepen people‑to‑people ties, and reaffirm naval friendship between the two nations.

The stopover, held from June 18–21, was part of the Muhibah Diplomasi Duta Bangsa voyage and the 2026 Kartika Jala Krida naval cadet training program.

Ambassador Kartini emphasized that maritime diplomacy plays a crucial role in bilateral relations, echoing discussions between President Prabowo Subianto and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during President Prabowo’s state visit to Japan in March 2026.

Commander Sugeng Hariyanto of KRI Bima Suci highlighted the importance of such international visits in shaping the future of naval cadets.

“This visit to Nagasaki strengthens friendship between nations while giving our cadets invaluable international experience as future leaders of the Indonesian Navy,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

Rear Admiral Ogawa Kunio of the Japan Maritime Self‑Defense Force welcomed the ship, noting the shared geography of both countries as archipelagic states.

He stressed that maritime cooperation is essential amid today’s global and regional geopolitical challenges, and praised the visit as a reflection of close ties that should continue to grow.

Carrying 77 cadets from the Indonesian Naval Academy’s 73rd class, KRI Bima Suci had already visited Shanghai, Busan, and Vladivostok before arriving in Nagasaki.

The voyage now continues to Manila, where the ship is scheduled to dock on July 2 for a series of cultural, educational, and diplomatic activities. ***