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Be the Light Across the Ocean: A Message of Strength for All Indonesian Seafarers and Maritime Cadets
By: Prof. Dr. Capt. Eddy Sumartono, DBA., Ph.D.
The ocean is our stage of life. Upon its vast waters, beneath the blazing sun and the fury of storms, the true spirit of a seafarer is forged. To me, every Indonesian seafarer is a living ambassador of our nation — a proud bearer of the red-and-white flag that waves above the world’s seas. Every voyage, every challenge, and every success you achieve out there is a reflection of the unyielding spirit of Indonesia.
Having once stood on the bridge of ships, staring at endless horizons, I understand deeply that being a seafarer is not just an occupation — it is a calling. A calling to safeguard life, honor, and the pride of our nation. Not everyone is capable of enduring the hardships of the sea, yet that is what makes us exceptional: we are shaped not by comfort, but by courage and endurance.
A Pride Beyond Measure
To every Indonesian seafarer — wherever you are sailing today — whether aboard a tanker in the Middle East, a container vessel crossing the Pacific, or an offshore ship supporting the energy industry, you are the pride of Indonesia.
Every time your vessel departs and the Indonesian flag flutters at its stern, the world recognizes the strength and professionalism of our people. You are not only earning a living; you are bringing honor to your homeland.
And to all maritime cadets — whether you are currently on campus or undergoing sea training — remember this: every drill, every challenge, and every moment of discipline is shaping you into a leader. Success is never born from comfort. It is forged in hardship, built upon perseverance, and crowned with integrity.
The Sea as the Greatest Teacher of Leadership
The sea is the greatest university of life. There, you learn responsibility, teamwork, and true leadership. A captain is not respected because of his rank but because of the trust his crew has in his decisions.
Leadership, in its truest form, is not about authority — it is about character. Be the kind of person who inspires confidence, who remains calm in crisis, and firm in decision-making. That is the essence of maritime leadership — and those values will guide you not only on board but in every aspect of life.
Indonesian Seafarers: Heroes of the Global Waves
The maritime world is evolving. Automation, digital transformation, and the green energy transition are reshaping how ships operate. But behind every innovation, one thing remains constant — the world still needs brave, ethical, and resilient human beings at sea.
Indonesian seafarers have long proven themselves on the global stage. We are known for our discipline, hard work, and unwavering spirit. Yet, we must never stop growing. The seafarer of the future must be more than strong — they must be technologically adept, mentally resilient, and morally grounded.
The next era of global shipping belongs to those who can balance technological expertise with wisdom, empathy, and integrity.
To All Maritime Cadets
Dear cadets, I know your journey is not easy. There will be times of exhaustion, homesickness, and doubt. But remember this — every storm eventually passes, and after the rain, there will always be light.
So, keep sailing forward. Keep learning. Keep believing in yourself. The hardships you face today are not there to break you, but to prepare you for greater things. One day, when you stand on the bridge of your own ship, you will look back and realize that every challenge was shaping your destiny.
“The sea never rewards the weak, but it always honors the brave.”
The ocean respects only those who dare to face it.
Let that truth guide you through every challenge — in your studies, in your training, and throughout your career.
Be the Light for the Nation
I believe the future of Indonesia’s maritime greatness rests in your hands — the hands of brave seafarers and the hearts of young cadets preparing to lead. Be the light that shines for our nation, not through words, but through your discipline, professionalism, and compassion.
Wherever you may go — in foreign ports or aboard international fleets — carry the pride of Indonesia within you. Show the world that Indonesian seafarers are not only skilled navigators and engineers but also men and women of ethics, responsibility, and humanity.
"Sail with heart, lead by example, and be a light for those still searching for direction."
As long as the red-and-white flag continues to wave proudly across the world’s oceans, the spirit of Indonesian seafarers will never fade. We are the sons and daughters of the sea — and we will keep sailing forward, fearless and determined.
Keep your compass steady, your spirit strong, and your heart full of pride. The world’s oceans are waiting — and they belong to those bold enough to conquer them with wisdom, courage, and faith.
Sail on, Indonesian seafarers.
Never stop sailing, because the ocean of tomorrow is waiting to be led by the best of our nation.
*****
Press Release,.
