Bali is currently in the global spotlight due to the arrival of dozens of foreign warships ahead of the Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) 2025.
This international naval drill, taking place from February 15 to 22, 2025, will bring together participants from 39 countries. A total of 38 warships, including vessels from the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), will take part in the exercise. Specifically, 21 foreign warships and 17 Indonesian Navy vessels will participate.
Among the participating nations are the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, France, India, Iran, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, and others.
The exercise will also feature seven helicopters and three maritime patrol aircraft.
The Commander of the Indonesian Navy, Admiral Muhammad Ali, emphasized that the main objective of the exercise is to ensure maritime security.
“These drills aim to strengthen military cooperation, enhance maritime security stability, and contribute to the economy and tourism of the region,” he explained.
The opening ceremony of MNEK 2025 took place at Benoa Port, while the practical naval exercises will be conducted in the Badung Strait and the northern waters of Bali.
Although MNEK 2025 involves naval forces, it is not purely a military operation. Instead, it is an international joint training for crisis response and disaster relief.
The focus is on humanitarian assistance and disaster management, aligning with Indonesia’s global military diplomacy efforts.
Admiral Ali highlighted that previous MNEK exercises were successfully conducted in Batam, Padang, Lombok, and Makassar. This time, Bali was chosen as the host at the request of many participating nations, given its status as a world-renowned tourism hub.
Beyond Military Strategy: MNEK 2025 Includes Social Initiatives
Apart from the naval drills, MNEK 2025 also includes various social activities for the local community.
For instance, military personnel have already organized an international taekwondo tournament as part of the program.
Exercises like MNEK 2025 not only strengthen international cooperation but also provide critical support for countries facing crises that they may not be able to handle alone.
Sources: jawapos, eurasiantimes
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