Batam, Batamnews - The Maritime Security Agency (Bakamla) said Indonesia and the US began construction of a new maritime training center worth $3.5 million or more than IDR 506 billion in Batam, Riau Islands.

The US Ambassador to Indonesia, Sung Kim, attended a virtual groundbreaking ceremony on Friday (25/6/2021). Kim said the maritime hub would be an ongoing effort between the two countries to strengthen security in the region.

"As a friend and partner of Indonesia, the United States remains committed to supporting Indonesia's leading role in advancing regional peace and security by countering domestic and transnational crime," he said, according to a statement from Bakamla, as quoted by Reuters.

The training center, which is located at an important point between the Malacca Strait and the South China Sea, will be managed by Bakamla. Bakamla added the place.

The collaboration between the US and Indonesia comes amid rising tensions in the South China Sea. In May, the Philippines protested the presence of hundreds of Chinese ships in the Spratley Islands.

Earlier this month, Southeast Asian and Chinese foreign ministers agreed at a meeting to show mutual restraint in the South China Sea and avoid actions that could escalate tensions.