Tinggalkan Kampung Demi NKRI (2)

Summary

In this engaging episode of the Marvest Podcast, Mira interviews Basilio Dias Araujo, a distinguished figure from Indonesia's Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs. He shares his journey, from joining the government in 2015 to his impactful work in maritime security, including handling critical issues like maritime sovereignty, worker protection for Indonesian sailors abroad, and advocating for marine litter resolutions in international forums. Basilio also reflects on his diplomatic skills, successful negotiations, and the importance of maintaining positive relationships in government. His reflections on a long and influential career offer insights into Indonesia's maritime diplomacy.

Takeaways

• 😀 Bapak Basilio Dias Araujo joined the Indonesian Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (Kemenko Marves) in July 2015 as Assistant Deputy for Maritime Security, overseeing important maritime and energy issues.
• 😀 His initial choice of the Assistant Deputy for Maritime Security role was strategic, as it was less popular and had fewer competitors, offering an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
• 😀 A key initiative during his tenure was the establishment of the Information Fusion Center in Bakamla, enhancing inter-agency cooperation in maritime security.
• 😀 He was actively involved in international maritime discussions, including at the International Maritime Organization (IMO), advocating for resolutions to address marine litter, which became a global issue.
• 😀 During the COVID-19 pandemic, he worked to protect Indonesian seafarers abroad, ensuring they received protection and could return safely to Indonesia by leading the repatriation efforts and opening 11 ports for returning seafarers.
• 😀 Bapak Basilio was instrumental in lobbying for a UN resolution in December 2020 that classified seafarers as essential workers, ensuring their global protection during the pandemic.
• 😀 His diplomatic skills were honed through past experiences, including negotiating international agreements, where he applied his knowledge of negotiation techniques to reach beneficial outcomes.
• 😀 One of his notable achievements was successfully negotiating a $1.2 billion investment from Hyundai in Indonesia, overcoming skepticism from various ministries.
• 😀 He resolved a longstanding negotiation between Indonesia and Singapore in just three months, showcasing his negotiation expertise in a high-stakes environment.
• 😀 As he prepares for retirement, Bapak Basilio emphasizes the importance of diplomacy, relationship-building, and always working with respect for regulations and people in the maritime sector.

Q & A

What motivated Bapak Basilio Dias Araujo to join Kemenko Marves in 2015?

Bapak Basilio was motivated by the opportunity to take on a technical position in maritime security, which was less popular and had fewer applicants. He believed this role aligned with his strengths and could provide a significant impact on Indonesia's maritime sector.

What was the approach Bapak Basilio took to ensure his selection for the position?

Bapak Basilio focused on a strategic approach by selecting a less popular position, believing his background in administration and understanding of Indonesia's provinces would give him an advantage. He made it clear to the selection committee that his experience would benefit the country greatly.

What are some of the significant programs Bapak Basilio worked on during his tenure?

He worked on programs such as the handling of the Montara oil spill case, the protection of Indonesian seafarers abroad, and the proposal for a resolution at the IMO to address marine litter. These efforts were crucial in enhancing Indonesia's maritime security and international diplomacy.

What was the key challenge Bapak Basilio faced in his role as Assistant Deputy for Maritime Security?

One of the key challenges was the difficulty in distinguishing between 'security' and 'defense' in his responsibilities. He had to continuously clarify that his work focused on maritime security and resilience, not military defense.

How did Bapak Basilio facilitate the creation of an Information Fusion Center?

Bapak Basilio advocated for the establishment of the Information Fusion Center, which would consolidate maritime information from various agencies. He worked to coordinate between agencies like TNI, Polri, and Bakamla to ensure the center was created and recognized as a valid and trusted information source.

What is Bapak Basilio's contribution to the global maritime community during the COVID-19 pandemic?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Bapak Basilio worked to ensure that Indonesian seafarers, who are among the largest contributors to global maritime labor, received protection. He pushed for the recognition of seafarers as essential workers and helped coordinate the opening of Indonesian ports for the repatriation of seafarers.

What negotiation achievements did Bapak Basilio highlight in his career?

Bapak Basilio highlighted two major achievements: first, successfully negotiating a significant investment from Hyundai worth $1.2 billion, and second, completing a long-standing maritime negotiation with Singapore within just three months, despite the issue having been unresolved for 25 years.

What diplomatic skills does Bapak Basilio believe are essential for success in his field?

Bapak Basilio emphasizes the importance of negotiation and diplomacy, particularly the ability to navigate complex discussions without simply saying 'no.' He believes that effective diplomats must be skilled in managing conflicting interests and must communicate in ways that keep the conversation productive.

How does Bapak Basilio suggest that young professionals should approach their work in the maritime sector?

Bapak Basilio advises young professionals to always base their decisions and communication on regulations and laws, ensuring they have solid ground to stand on. He also emphasizes the importance of maintaining good relationships with colleagues, as this can significantly impact their future success.

What are Bapak Basilio's plans after retiring from his position at Kemenko Marves?

After retiring, Bapak Basilio plans to work as a consultant in maritime-related fields. He also intends to focus on sharing his experiences and knowledge, having already written a book on his diplomatic work in East Timor, offering insights into his career.