LRI i-MAR IPB University Holds Scientific Joy Cruise on the Tan Kah Kee Research Ship

The International Research Institute for Maritime, Marine and Fisheries (LRI i-MAR) of IPB University in collaboration with Xiamen University (XMU) China organized the “Scientific Joy Cruise with Tan Kah Kee Research Vessels of Xiamen University”.

This activity was carried out on the Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel (Jia Geng) during a four day trip from Jakarta to Port Klang Cruise Terminal, Kuala Lumpur. More than 30 scientists and students participated in the event as part of the SEA-BIRD (Science, Education, and Adventure on Board) program.

Prof Luky Adrianto, Chairman of i-MAR IPB University as well as the person in charge of the activity emphasized the importance of cross-border cooperation in facing global challenges in the marine field. “Bilateral relations are carried out by strengthening the academic field and transferring knowledge during the cruise with the Tan Kah Kee Research Ship. Furthermore, this cooperation will continue to develop towards greater research,” he said.

Previously, the Rector of IPB University expressed his hope that Indonesia could have a high-quality research ship like Tan Kah Kee. “We welcome XMU’s invitation to conduct training on board the Tan Kah Kee Research Ship as an effort to expand collaboration in science, education, and adventure,” he said while attending the Open Ship event (8/8).

Since its first open ship in 2018, the Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel has extensively attracted public participation. The ship has proven to be safe, efficient, and supportive of seagoing activities for oceanographic expeditions. Its mission is to provide the best facilities to support the gathering of scientists, in line with the mission of the academic community.

This training cruise focused on discussions, knowledge sharing, and sailing experiences. Onboard activities include student team building, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), ethical behavior, and materials related to risk and safety at sea.

Participants also attended short lectures from IPB University marine experts such as Dr Budhi Hascaryo Iskandar, Dr Adriani Samsul Sunuddin, Dr Charles Parningotan Haratua, Dr Steven Solikin, and Dwi Putra Yuwandana, MSi. In addition, the ship crew also delivered material related to ship operations, Security Officer from the Indonesian Navy, Mohammad Ryan Putra, ST, delivered military material, and Rendra Hadi Wibawa, ST from the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) presented research studies.

This activity was supported by the Center for Coastal and Marine Resources Studies (PKSPL) and the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science (FPIK) of IPB University. In closing, the students presented their sailing experiences and lessons learned during the training on the Tan Kah Kee Research Vessel. (DY/Rz) (IAAS/NVA)