"Seafarers have an important role as the backbone of the country's economy," the ministry's Director General of Sea Transportation Arif Toha said when opening the campaign of sailing safety, part of the 2023 Seafarer Day, with the theme "Oceans Worth Protecting", here on Sunday.
The theme was inspired by the 2023 International Day of the Seafarers held by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), namely "Seafarers' Contribution to Protecting the Marine Environment".
Toha explained that the Oceans Worth Protecting theme aimed to raise awareness of sailing safety and maritime protection in Indonesia.
"Marine pollution, like oil spills, often happens in Bintan, which borders Singapore. Therefore, I ask who knows of the oil spill to immediately report it," he said.
He invited regulators, operators, and the public who use sea transportation services, to play an active role in protecting oceans.
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He said the community can contribute to protecting the ocean by raising awareness of the safety of sailing and reducing plastic pollution that poses a serious threat to marine life in Indonesia.
On that occasion, Toha handed over awards to two Indonesian women seafarers. One of them serves on ships in the country's remote areas and another one on passenger vessels.
"On this occasion, the government praises these women seafarers who have contributed greatly in realizing connectivity in remote parts of the archipelago," he said.
He said it is a matter of pride that the country has strong women sailors who are not afraid of sea storms.
"They fight storms and waves to transport people and deliver logistics needs to the frontier, outermost, and remote (3T) areas," he said.
The campaign of safe sailing aimed to ensure safe and comfortable sea voyages in all Indonesian waters.
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Translator: Benardy F, Kenzu
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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