Jakarta, IDM – The museum, which literally translates as “At sea we are victorious”, was built in 2022, during the tenure of Chief of Naval Staff (KSAL) Adm. (Retd.) Yudo Margono. A year later, on September 11, 2023, the museum was completed and inaugurated by the current KSAL Adm. Muhammad Ali. But it was only open to the general public on January 21, 2024.
Situated on 1 Hang Tuah St., Ujung Perang, Surabaya, East Java, the 3.2 hectare museum sits on the former office of TNI-AL Naval Base (Lantamal) V Transportation Directorate.
The museum features not only a collection of valuable artifacts, but also innovations that combine 4.0 technology with the rich history of the Indonesian Navy and the country’s maritime greatness. Commodore Hariyo Poernomo, the head of the Naval History Office, pointed out that the museum is equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology, meaning all digital equipment there can be remotely to offer an interactive, engaging and educational experiences.
“This museum aims to be an inspiring and entertaining educational space to introduce the current and future generations to the moral, mental and character eminence of Indonesian ‘sea warriors,’” said the graduate of Indonesian Naval Academy’s (AAL) Class 43- 1997. “All Indonesian people, especially those living in Surabaya and the surrounding areas, can now visit TNI-AL Central Naval Museum to learn more about the rich and proud history of the Indonesian Navy.”
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Superb Facilities, Captivating Collection
The history and journey of TNI-AL is displayed in three exhibition halls in the heritage building, hangar, theater and a building that replicates frigate KRI RE Martadinata. One of the main collections outside the exhibition building is the Fairey Gannet, a carrier-borne turboprop-powered aircraft used during Operation Trikora and Operation Dwikora in the 1960s.
The museum also exhibits the propeller and weapons (such as 20mm Mitraliur Oerlikon cannon) of corvette KRI Hang Tuah － sunk by AUREV bomber on April 28, 1958 － which was salvaged from the Balikpapan Strait.
Other collection includes a Marine Aqualung type ABM-1M used by the Navy’s Commando Corps (KKO AL) to recover the bodies of slain revolutionary heroes from the well in Lubang Buaya, Jakarta. Also on display is the classic Mark V MOD 1 diving equipment used for underwater search and recovery (salvage diving), Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, as well as underwater demolition and sabotage operations.
Since its inaugural opening to the public in mid-January this year, the Indonesian Navy’s (TNI-AL) Jalesveva Jayamahe Central Naval Museum has been seen throngs of enthusiastic visitors, especially those residing in Surabaya and the surrounding regions, who have been eager to learn more about the fascinating world of the naval service.
Visitors can also see a collection of weaponry comprising long-barreled rifles and classic pistols, to the original flags of the fleets and units that stand witness to the laudable development of the Indonesian Navy.
Additionally, there are various dioramas of historical events, such as miniature model of Oerlikon cannon used in Operation Mena II to regain control of Morotai Island, Jailolo and the surrounding area from Permesta rebel movement; and of the Soviet-made PT-76 amphibious light tank, the mainstay vehicle that has been used in numerous TNI-AL operations.
The “smart museum” concept adopted by the museum succeeded in delivering a special experience for the visitors. Through the interactive display of the collections, visitors can better understand the critical role the Indonesian Navy plays in safeguarding the territorial waters of the Republic of Indonesia. Plethora of equipment and the the service’s unique customs and traditions are all stunningly presented using modern technology. The integrated AI system also allows the museum to manage and maintain the museum collection efficiently, without having to be physically present on-site.
One of the main attractions is the immersive 5D theater where visitors can feel the sensation of being in the middle of a naval battle in the Arafuru Sea. As a historical documentation medium, the theater goes beyond venue for entertainment; it is a space for reflection on the struggle of sea warriors in defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Indonesia.
For visitors, diverse advanced technologies such as interactive sensors, touch screen, and projection mapping provide stunning exploratory experiences that will make a lasting impression. (Aini Tartinia/From multiple sources)