Ambassador Agus Widjojo of the Embassy of Indonesia welcomes Lieutenant Colonel Hastaria Dwi Prakoso, Commander of KRI BIMA SUCI-945.
KRI Bima, the Indonesian navy’s training ship, arrived at Pier 15 South Harbor Manila on Oct. 15, 2024, for a four-day goodwill visit. This was the ship’s third visit to the Philippines following its first visit in Oct 2018 and second visit in Aug. 2019.
Named after a Javanese hero, Bima, who is known for his strength, bravery, and righteousness, KRI Bima Suci was launched in September 2017. This spectacular vessel is one of the largest tall ships in the world and has 36,200 sqft of sails with 200 people at full capacity.
KRI Bima Suci plays an important role in supporting Indonesia’s diplomatic mission as the “Floating Ambassador of Goodwill” that pays courtesy visits to ports across the globe in the promotion of Indonesian culture to the international community. It has become a strategic tool in strengthening the friendship between Indonesia and other countries.
This tall ship is currently on its mission to spread peace and goodwill to eight countries such as Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, China, South Korea, Russia, Japan, and the Philippines as its last stop before heading back to its homeport in Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia.
While in Manila, the ship’s crew, in cooperation with Makati City Government, Ayala Land, and Barangay San Lorenzo, conducted a drum band display and cultural parade at the Legazpi Active Park on Oct. 16. The event highlighted Indonesian-Philippine cultural performances and a parade of traditional costumes. In addition, an open ship invitation for the public was held on Oct. 16 and an onboard reception for the diplomatic community on Oct. 17. The visitors and guests attending the KRI Bima Suci’s events experienced Indonesian hospitality at its finest while enjoying the richness and diversity of Indonesia’s culture.
KRI Bima Suci’s visit to the Philippines is part of the year-long celebration commemorating the 75th anniversary of Indonesian and Philippine diplomatic relations this year.
Indonesia and the Philippines share not only geographical proximity but also common challenges in maintaining peace and stability in the region, which is highlighted in the maritime cooperation. Both countries have built joint naval exercises and coordinated patrols to ensure the safety of not only their boundaries but the region as well. The vessel carries over 200 personnel, including 189 cadets.
