Bogor, Info Burinyay –Sultan Patrakusumah VIII, Rohidin, S.H., M.H., M.Si., Trust of Guarantee Phoenix Ina 18, expressed high appreciation for the Asia Pacific Chaplaincy Symposium (APCS) 2025 held at the Pullman Hotel Ciawi, Bogor, West Java. This international forum was officially opened by the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Madiateni Erwin S. Aldeh Dharma, on Monday, January 27, 2025.
The symposium carried the theme “Fostering Peace and Unity Through Interfaith Collaboration in the World.” This theme reflects the determination to strengthen inter-country relations through interfaith understanding. Moreover, during the event, participants shared knowledge and experiences related to spiritual services in both military and civilian settings. Additionally, they formulated concrete solutions for global peace through a spiritual approach.
In his remarks, Sultan Patrakusumah VIII congratulated the successful hosting of APCS 2025. He emphasized that interfaith collaboration is a key pillar in creating sustainable peace. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of international cooperation in addressing increasingly complex global challenges. Through these efforts, interfaith collaboration is expected to have a positive impact on global stability.
A Holistic Approach to Diplomacy and Spirituality
Meanwhile, the Indonesian Navy, represented by Admiral Madiateni Erwin S. Aldeh Dharma, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting world peace and regional stability. He stated that the Navy does not only focus on military duties but also fosters close diplomacy with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to maintain regional stability. Additionally, he emphasized that “a holistic approach to developing the mental and spiritual strength of personnel is key to shaping professional and highly-integrated soldiers.”
Furthermore, the Indonesian Navy emphasized its holistic approach to mental and spiritual development among its personnel. This initiative aims to strengthen individual character while fostering solid synergy among participating countries. Likewise, during the forum, delegates from various Asia Pacific countries shared experiences on spiritual services and strategies for interfaith collaboration within military environments.
The Navy and Peace Diplomacy
As part of its commitment, the Indonesian Navy actively engages in international diplomacy to support world peace. Through cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Navy strives to maintain regional stability while building strong relations with other nations. Consequently, this diplomacy significantly contributes to global peace efforts.
In the context of APCS 2025, this diplomacy was realized through inter-country dialogues focusing on spiritual and humanitarian issues. Similarly, the symposium also provided a platform for participants to understand the critical role of spiritual services in supporting military operations during both peacetime and conflict. Through these discussions, the participation of various stakeholders is expected to further strengthen international cooperation.
Appreciation and Hopes
APCS 2025 received high praise from various parties. Notably, this forum became an essential moment to strengthen inter-country relations through spiritual dialogue. Moreover, with the presence of delegates from diverse backgrounds, the symposium is expected to foster a deeper understanding of interfaith collaboration.
Sultan Patrakusumah VIII expressed hope that the outcomes of APCS 2025 would serve as a foundation for concrete efforts in creating world peace. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of expanding the results of the discussions to the level of global implementation. This symposium is also expected to inspire other military institutions to adopt similar approaches in building global stability.
Through this forum, the Indonesian Navy demonstrated that the role of the military extends beyond ensuring security. Additionally, they also act as catalysts for world peace. With the spirit of collaboration and innovation, APCS 2025 serves as concrete evidence that a spiritual approach can provide solutions to complex global challenges. Moreover, the active role of the delegates underscores the immense potential of interfaith collaboration in creating global harmony.