Indonesian Navy’s goodwill mission strengthens ties with South Pacific nations
Gusty Da Costa
Indonesia has embarked on a diplomatic initiative to bolster relations with South Pacific island nations with the launch of a 48-day naval goodwill voyage. The hospital ship KRI Dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo-991, a key component of the Indonesian Navy, set sail in early October 2024 for Fiji, Papua New Guinea (PNG), the Solomon Islands and Vanuatu. The deployment underscores Indonesia’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation and highlights its growing naval capabilities and humanitarian outreach.
It is Indonesia’s first such mission to the South Pacific and will showcase the hospital ship, which was inaugurated in 2022. Named for a pioneering national hero, the ship is equipped with facilities for services such as minor surgery and general medical care. The mission also serves as a test of the ship’s capabilities, Adm. Denih Hendrata, commander of the Indonesian Fleet, said at the launch ceremony.
The nearly 180 crew members include medical professionals, divers and security teams, as well as students from Indonesia’s Papua province, the Indonesian Armed Forces (TNI) stated. During port visits, medical staff will dispense medications for conditions such as hypertension, skin infections and asthma. The crew also conducts dental and eye exams, community outreach, and infrastructure improvements.
The deployment aligns with Jakarta’s goal of fostering peace and cooperation, Marcellus Hakeng Jayawibawa, an Indonesian maritime expert and civilian ship captain, told FORUM. “This mission reflects Indonesia’s principle of ‘free and active,’ in which Indonesia actively participates in maintaining regional stability without siding with certain global powers,” he said, adding that the mission also supports Indonesia’s involvement with regional organizations such as the 18-member Pacific Islands Forum.
Jayawibawa stressed the importance of Indonesia’s strategic presence in the South Pacific amid increasing geopolitical competition. Through the naval diplomacy, Indonesia projects a message of neutrality, focusing on humanitarian support. “Indonesia is emphasizing its role as a major player in the Indo-Pacific region, aiming to create an inclusive and peace-based regional order,” he said.
In addition to strengthening bilateral ties, the mission addresses pressing health challenges. Nations including Fiji and PNG grapple with infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and dengue fever, compounded by limited health care infrastructure. “The ship carries medicines, medical equipment, and professionals who provide direct care and training to local health workers,” Jayawibawa said.
The deployment also supports Indonesia’s goal of becoming a global maritime axis, Soleman Ponto, former chief of the TNI’s Strategic Intelligence Agency, told FORUM. By delivering humanitarian aid and fostering people-to-people connections, Indonesia reinforces its image as a peaceful, cooperative nation.
“Indonesia’s presence in the South Pacific demonstrates that we are a sovereign country committed to regional peace and stability,” Ponto said.
Gusty Da Costa is a FORUM contributor based in Jakarta, Indonesia.
