In a significant stride toward maritime collaboration, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Indonesia signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to facilitate the mutual recognition of seafarer certificates. The signing ceremony, attended by high-ranking officials including Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser and Indonesian Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi, marks a pivotal moment in strengthening ties between the two nations. The Saudi delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Dr. Rumaih bin Mohammed Al-Rumaih and Director General of Sea Transportation Antoni Arif Priadi from Indonesia, formalized the MoU. The agreement is designed to endorse education, training, and qualification certificates for seafarers engaged on ships between Saudi Arabia and Indonesia. Aligned with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) of 1978 and its amendments, the MoU seeks to standardize training levels, certification issuance, and seafarer responsibilities. The primary focus is on ensuring the competence of officers and seafarers on ships from both countries. The initiative emphasizes collaboration and coordination efforts between the nations, establishing necessary frameworks and regulations to implement these requirements. Special attention is given to educational and training programs, along with assessment mechanisms for certifying seafarers from both Saudi Arabia and Indonesia. This landmark agreement underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to supporting its seafarers through robust educational and training initiatives, reinforcing their capabilities in the maritime sector. Additionally, it paves the way for enhanced collaborative efforts and knowledge exchange in the realms of education and qualification.
