Seeing the Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel, the Rector of IPB University Hopes Indonesia Will Have Similar Facilities
The Rector of IPB University, Prof Arif Satria, saw firsthand the Tan Kah Kee (Jia Geng) Research Vessel owned by Xiamen University, China, which was holding an Open Ship event at Tanjung Priok Passenger Port, North Jakarta. He hopes that Indonesia will one day have a high-tech marine research vessel like Tan Kah Kee.
This activity is part of SEA-Connect 2025: Science, Education, and Adventure on Board. This program is a regional initiative that aims to encourage marine science collaboration and academic exchange between Xiamen University, IPB University, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and other partner institutions.
“This is a very large ship and very good for conducting marine research. In this case, we are working with BRIN and Xiamen to build collaboration for more advanced marine research,” said Prof Arif on Friday (8/8).
During his visit, he inspected various ship facilities, ranging from laboratories, meeting rooms, accommodations, to modern equipment for marine research.
“Of course, we are very happy to see this ship, which is currently docked at Tanjung Priok. Hopefully, one day we will have a ship like this,” he said.
In addition, according to Prof Arif, China is now one of the leading countries in marine research. He hopes that this kind of collaboration can inspire and pave the way for future experts in the agromaritime field.
The two-day Open Ship event is not merely an exhibition but also an important platform to foster engagement and provide hands-on experience for students and young professionals from Southern countries. Through this initiative, the legacy of innovation and leadership in marine science in this region can continue to thrive.
“By providing hands-on opportunities for students and young professionals from Southern countries, this collaboration can pave the way for future experts in agromaritime science, ensuring the continuity of innovation and leadership,” said Prof Arif.
Meanwhile, President of Xiamen University Prof Shi Dalin explained that during the Tan Kah Kee ship’s visit to Indonesia, Xiamen and IPB University will jointly organize various cultural and academic exchange activities.
In addition to the two-day Open Ship event on board the Tan Kah Kee, Prof Shi Dalin noted that students from Xiamen University will visit IPB University for academic exchanges. Faculty members and students from IPB University will also board the ship during its journey to Xiamen University Malaysia.
“Furthermore, the ship will conduct a joint research expedition organized by BRIN and the Second Institute of Oceanography of China under the Ministry of Natural Resources, which will further deepen the collaboration in marine science and technology between the two countries,” he said.
He hopes that this event will be a new starting point for expanding and deepening cooperation between Xiamen University and its partners in Indonesia.
“Let us work together to promote high-quality exchanges in science, education, and culture, and contribute to building an Indonesia-China community with a shared future,” he said. (*/Rz) (IAAS/LAN)
