JAKARTA, RAKYAT NEWS – The Indonesian Navy’s KRI dr. WahIdin Sudirohusodo-991 has departed for Fiji after successfully completing its goodwill and humanitarian mission in the Solomon Islands.

The vessel, part of the Pacific Port Visit Task Force 2024, left the Solomon Islands on October 28 and is expected to reach Suva, Fiji, within five days, arriving on November 2.

Lieutenant Colonel Ajik Sismianto, Head of Public Relations for the Indonesian Navy’s Third Fleet Command, confirmed the ship’s departure.

He noted that prior to leaving Solomon, a series of activities were conducted, including operational drills and a ceremonial parade on board, showcasing the vessel’s capabilities and readiness.

During the voyage to Fiji, crew members and personnel from the Pacific Port Visit Task Force engaged in morning exercises.

Despite challenging conditions, including strong winds and high waves in the Solomon Sea, they maintained their fitness routine, which featured warm-ups and traditional exercises like Senam SKJ 88 and Aster Dance.

As part of its goodwill mission, the KRI dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo-991 is scheduled to visit Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea following its stop in Fiji.

In each country, the ship will conduct community service activities, such as renovating places of worship, providing free health services, and distributing medical aid packages to local communities.

The mission is designed not only to strengthen diplomatic ties but also to extend humanitarian assistance to those in need across the region. The total journey is expected to last 48 days, culminating in the ship’s return to its base in Sorong, West Papua.

The task force is led by Colonel Arif Prasetyo Irbianto and comprises 177 personnel, including 141 ship crew members and 36 task force staff. This team includes divers, security teams, general practitioners, specialists, students from Papua, and information officers from the Indonesian Navy’s Public Relations Office.

This ongoing mission reflects Indonesia’s commitment to regional cooperation and humanitarian assistance, reinforcing its role as a responsible maritime nation in the Pacific. The activities planned throughout the journey aim to foster goodwill and support local communities in the host nations. (Uki Ruknuddin)