Batam, Riau Islands (ANTARA) – A total of 30 vessels with around 500 personnel from ministries and agencies involved in maritime security took part in the 2025 National Marine Pollution Exercise (Marpolex) in Batam, Riau Islands.The exercise simulated rescue and mitigation operations following a collision between a tanker and a motorboat in the waters off Batam City on Tuesday.Several ministries and agencies deployed their vessels for the drill, including the Ministry of Transportation, the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), the Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI), the National Police, Customs and Excise, the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla), and the regional governments of Riau Islands Province and Batam City.The Director of the Maritime and Shipping Surveillance Unit at the Ministry of Transportation, Hendri Ginting, said participants carried out simulations that included rescuing passengers who had fallen overboard, extinguishing a fire on a burning vessel, and minimizing oil spills caused by the collision.“This simulation was carried out with the support of approximately 30 vessels for rescue, firefighting, and response activities. This exercise demonstrates our readiness in handling such incidents,” Ginting said.He added that the drill highlights joint efforts to ensure Batam and the Riau Islands, as key economic zones, are prepared to respond to oil spills that could affect tourism and maritime traffic.“This also shows the preparedness of all maritime elements in addressing and mitigating spills,” he said.The exercise started when ships were deployed to simulate a collision between a tanker and a motorboat.Two patrol boats from the Marine and Fisheries Service (KPLP) were then spraying water on a simulated burning tanker, while other small patrol boats evacuated passengers who had been simulated to have fallen overboard.Ginting noted that the Marpolex exercise is held regularly, with last year’s drill hosted in Tanjung Priok, Jakarta. Beyond the national level, Marpolex is also conducted regionally and involves participation from neighboring countries.The 2025 Marpolex reflects Indonesia’s commitment as a member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), with responsibilities in maintaining maritime safety and environmental sustainability.“We have conducted this training frequently, and next year, neighboring countries such as the Philippines and Japan will conduct the Regional Marpolex,” he added.
Indonesia holds 2025 Marpolex drill in Batam waters
