PT Pelindo Jasa Maritim (PJM), a subsidiary of Indonesian state port operator Pelindo, is upgrading the qualifications of 20 pilots through a 2026 Level I Pilot Certification Program as it prepares to handle larger vessels.
The program is being conducted in two cohorts of 10 pilots each. The first cohort began training on Monday, with on-site sessions at PT Pendidikan Maritim dan Logistik Indonesia (PMLI) following a selection examination held from Sept. 2 to 4.
The upgrade from Level II to Level I qualification is intended to strengthen PJM’s capacity to provide pilotage services for larger vessels. Under the applicable regulations, Level I pilots are qualified to pilot vessels with a length overall (LOA) of more than 200 metres and are authorized to pilot vessels of any length.
“Pilots play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and smooth movement of vessels; therefore, their competence must be continuously developed,” said Aris Subagyo, PJM’s director of finance, human resources and risk management.
Aris said the program was also aimed at strengthening the company’s overall service capabilities by increasing the number of pilots with Level I qualifications.
“With an increased number of personnel holding Level I Pilot qualifications, PJM is better prepared to provide safe, reliable and high-quality pilotage services while meeting the evolving needs of service users,” he said.
The first cohort’s program runs from Sept. 7 to Oct. 12 and includes classroom training, practical ship-piloting sessions, final evaluations and competency examinations.
The second cohort is scheduled to undertake the program from Oct. 30 to Dec. 12, including selection, training, practical ship-piloting, final evaluation and completion of the certification program.
The initiative forms part of PJM’s broader human capital development efforts and is aligned with the State-Owned Enterprises’ human capital transformation agenda promoted by Danantara Indonesia.
PJM said continued development of pilot qualifications would help ensure its workforce is equipped to respond to changes in the maritime industry and support the safe and reliable movement of vessels.
The company provides marine-related services within the Pelindo group and said strengthening pilot competence would support port operations and maritime connectivity in Indonesia.
