Every country that is on the Tokyo MoU Whitelist receives global recognition for its compliance with the rules and conventions of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), covering safety, security, and operational aspects of maritime activities. These countries are also deemed competitive on the global stage.
Such countries are entitled to special treatment, including reduced ship inspection frequency, a stronger position in international negotiations, global recognition, and better attention from insurance companies.
According to the Tokyo MOU Annual Report 2023, Indonesia has successfully maintained its position on the Tokyo MOU Whitelist. For 4 consecutive years, Indonesia has been able to compete with 22 other Member Authorities in the Asia-Pacific region. This certainly has a positive impact on the development of maritime tourism in Indonesia.
Being on the Tokyo MOU Whitelist enhances the reputation and image of Indonesian-flagged vessels, thus improving competitiveness for operators and ship charterers and increasing investor interest in the maritime tourism sector. This success also supports Indonesia’s significant potential to boost the number of international tourists through cruise ships, phinisi, and yachts.
To maintain this achievement, the Directorate General of Sea Transportation has implemented additional measures through the Instruction of the Director General of Sea Transportation as stipulated in Decree of Director General of Sea Transportation No. KP-DJPL 320 Year 2024. This Instruction mandates that any Indonesian-flagged vessel intending to sail abroad must undergo inspection by the Ship Safety Inspector along with the Port State Control Officer (PSCO) and/or Surveyor from an accredited organization before the issuance of the Sailing Approval Letter (SPB).
To ensure that the ship’s crew can address and comply with all findings identified by Port State Control officers abroad, the Directorate General of Sea Transportation, through the Directorate of Shipping and Maritime Affairs also dispatches ship safety inspectors directly to the detained vessel. Additionally, ongoing support and comprehensive evaluations are consistently provided to the relevant companies as part of continuous efforts to enhance ship safety and seaworthiness.
Despite the government’s response with policies aimed at maintaining this reputation, ship owners and operators are advised not to become complacent with these achievements. They must continue to uphold high standards of quality and comply with both national and international regulations, especially when their vessels are operating overseas. By consistently maintaining these high standards of quality and compliance, there is a strong hope that Indonesia will continue to secure its status as a member of the Tokyo MOU White List each year.
If you, a prospective client, have further inquiries about the topic discussed above, Schinder Law Firm is one of many corporate law firms in Indonesia that has handled numerous similar matters, with many experienced and professional corporate and civil lawyers in its arsenal, making it one of the top consulting firms in Indonesia. Feel free to contact us at info@schinderlawfirm.com for further consultation.
Author:
Dewi Susanti