Indonesia's future depends on strong maritime defense: Minister

..the history of this nation’s glory was built through mastery of maritime space,

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of National Development Planning (Bappenas) Rachmat Pambudy said that strengthening maritime defense strength is a strategic element in safeguarding sovereignty while supporting the national development agenda.

“Indonesia is a large country, both in terms of territory and its strategic position. We are located between two continents and two oceans," he said during a public lecture at the Naval Staff and Command School (Seskoal), as quoted from the ministry's statement here on Monday.

He continued, "A great country must be strong. That strength is not only reflected in economic development but also in the ability to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial security.”

In the context of Indonesia as the world’s largest archipelagic nation, he explained, maritime strength and the Navy are becoming increasingly important, not only today but also in the future.

Pambudy views defense as a long-term investment in national development.

Indonesia’s seas, which cover two-thirds of the country’s territory, are considered to hold significant economic potential, including new and renewable energy resources, fisheries, and a strategic position in global trade.

However, Pambudy noted that Indonesia also faces high disaster risks as it lies in the Ring of Fire. Therefore, he said that securing maritime space is seen as a prerequisite for achieving national prosperity.

Defense development must align with the principles of capability-based planning, budget effectiveness, and the strengthening of the national defense industry to address the challenges of modern multidimensional warfare, he elaborated.

“The future of Indonesia lies not only on land but also at sea. In fact, the history of this nation’s glory was built through mastery of maritime space,” the minister said.

Moreover, he argued, when the ability to safeguard the seas weakens, various valuable resources and economic opportunities can be lost.

"Therefore, maritime defense must become an inseparable part of the national development strategy,” Pambudy added.

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Translator: Alatas, Kenzu

Editor: M Razi Rahman

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