International Instructors Step In, Indonesia Boosts Dive Tourism Security

Indonesia's name has long been renowned among the global diving community. From Raja Ampat to Morotai, its underwater beauty is acknowledged as among the finest on the planet. However, to become a world-class diving destination, one non-negotiable element is diver safety.

This is the spirit behind the "Diving Safety 1000 Initiatives" program organized by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with Divers Alert Network (DAN) in Ternate, North Maluku.

This program doesn't just teach diving techniques but builds a strong safety culture throughout Indonesia's marine tourism ecosystem.

Safety as the Foundation of World-Class Dive Tourism

Hariyanto, Deputy for Destination Development and Infrastructure at the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized safety as the top priority.

"The Ministry of Tourism affirms that tourist safety is paramount. Through this program, Indonesia is expected to gain recognition as a world-class dive destination—not only beautiful but also safe and trustworthy," he stated on Friday, October 10, 2025.

This declaration clarifies Indonesia's tourism vision: not just visually captivating but also security-guaranteed.

Nationwide Training with International Standard Instructors

The training held on October 7–8, 2025 involved 55 participants from nine dive operators in Ternate, Tidore, and Morotai.

"This training is crucial to enhance safety in dive tourism, classified as a medium-high risk tourism sector."

To ensure quality, internationally certified professional instructors were present. The curriculum was co-designed with the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), one of the world's oldest and most respected dive certification bodies.

Three critical emergency modules were taught: Basic Life Support, CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), and Emergency Oxygen Provider.

This means participants aren't just skilled divers—they're prepared to save lives.

Emergency Equipment Provided: Beyond Theory

The program's seriousness is evident through tangible support: 60 first-aid kits were distributed to participants, while 8 oxygen regulators were handed to local dive centers.

This equipment will serve as lifelines during underwater emergencies.

"Through this joint effort, we're committed to achieving zero accidents in diving activities while preserving marine ecosystems—the backbone of Indonesia's dive tourism," Hariyanto said.

The goal is unequivocal: zero accidents and sustainable seas.

Why North Maluku?

The location choice wasn't coincidental. Morotai is designated a Priority Tourism Destination (DPP) under the 2025–2045 National Development Plan, focused on becoming a world-class marine tourism hub.

This program aligns with Indonesia's tourism upgrading initiative, where marine tourism strengthening is a core global attraction strategy.

More Than Training

Kadri La Etje, Assistant I for Governance and Community Welfare of North Maluku, stressed that Diving Safety represents cultural change.

"Initiatives like Diving Safety 1000 aren't just technical training—they're a moral movement fostering awareness that diving involves not only enjoying underwater beauty but safeguarding its life. We ensure marine tourism in North Maluku is sustainable, safe, and benefits coastal communities," Kadri explained.

In essence, divers aren't mere guests—they're ocean guardians.

National Program, National Impact

Since its October 2023 launch, the program has reached 890 participants toward its 1,000 target. Locations span Indonesia's top dive spots: Labuan Bajo, Bali, Manado, Maratua, Seribu Islands, Gili Matra, Raja Ampat, and Morotai.

This is more than local training—it's a national drive toward global safety standards. (Antara)