Indonesia and Japan convened at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Headquarters in London to discuss their collaboration in the maritime transportation sector. The gathering, presided over by Capt. Antoni Arif Priadi, the Director General of Sea Transportation, resulted in several positive agreements and collaboration plans.
A key agenda item was Japan’s backing of Indonesia’s bid for IMO council membership in category C for 2024-2025. Capt. Antoni conveyed appreciation for this support and extended congratulations to Japan for its re-election to the IMO council membership in category A for 2024-2025.
In the meeting, Indonesia emphasized its aspiration to strengthen cooperation in human resources, particularly in the deployment of Indonesian seafarers on Japanese-flagged vessels. Additionally, Indonesia proposed collaboration in research and training for the advancement and implementation of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS).
Discussions also encompassed Green Shipping and Decarbonization. Indonesia sought Japan’s assistance in conducting trials for the utilization of biofuels in Japanese-built engines, such as those from Akasaka and Yanmar.
Imai Shin, Director of Ocean Development and Environment Policy Division Maritime Bureau MLIT, addressed Japan’s demand for seafarers, the progression of MASS technology, and investigations into the use of environmentally friendly fuels. Japan presently requires a substantial number of seafarers for the operation of domestic vessels, yet domestic human resources are inadequate. Consequently, there are plans to recruit foreign seafarers for Japanese-flagged vessels operating domestically. Nonetheless, modifications to internal regulations are still required, as existing rules stipulate that Japanese-flagged vessels must be manned by Japanese seafarers.
Regarding the advancement of MASS technology, Japan has extended invitations to numerous countries to partake in workshops related to the implementation of IMO conventions, including those associated with MASS regulations. Japan aims to have MASS ships operational in its waters by 2025 and is currently conducting extensive studies on MASS-related issues, encompassing technology, environmental concerns, institutional matters, and regulations. Japan is committed to sharing information related to the implementation of MASS in both Japanese and international waters.
In the realm of green shipping, Japan is actively studying the use of ammonia fuel, along with its advantages and environmental repercussions. Ammonia being a toxic substance, caution is essential in its application to prevent seepage into the water. Japan is also conducting research on the utilization of hydrogen fuel and comparing it to ammonia fuel.
Japan welcomed the meeting and pledged to follow through on Indonesia’s proposals and requests within the Japanese ministry.
In conclusion, the Director General of Sea Transportation expressed optimism that the outcomes of the deliberations could materialize into Memoranda of Understanding at the ministerial level and Agreements at the director-general level. The collaboration between Indonesia and Japan is poised to positively impact the development of maritime transportation in both nations.
The gathering was also attended by the Director of Shipping and Seafaring, the Director of Traffic and Sea Transportation, the First Secretary of the Indonesian Embassy in London, the First Secretary of the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, the Sub-Director of Ship Safety, the Fleet Director of PT. PIS, the Director of Ocean Development and Environment Policy Division Maritime Bureau MLIT, and the Chief of International Planning and Coordination Office General Affairs Division Maritime Bureau MLIT.
