Carmelia Hartarto, the Chairperson of the Federation of ASEAN Shipowners Association (FASA), highlights Indonesia's leadership role in FASA for the 2024-2025 period as an opportunity to elevate its position in the regional shipping industry, particularly within ASEAN. "Leadership on the regional stage presents an opportunity to introduce our maritime industry to delegates from ASEAN and Asia," she stated during the FASA's annual meeting in Badung, Bali, on Wednesday. "Leadership in FASA and later in the Asian Shipowners Association (ASA) will also provide Indonesia with a chance to contribute significantly to the advancement of the shipping and maritime industry at the Asian regional level," she added. Carmelia, also the Chairperson of the Indonesian National Shipowners Association (INSA), noted that hosting the 60th Executive Committee Meeting & 49th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of FASA in Bali brings benefits to Indonesia in strengthening beyond cabotage. She mentioned that many national shipping companies already serve international routes carrying various commodities.
Demonstrating strong leadership from Indonesian shipping associations in such significant meetings is expected to foster cooperation among members, encouraging exporters to utilize national vessels for their export activities. The FASA meeting, attended by delegates from ASEAN member associations and national ship owners, discussed crucial issues concerning regional and global shipping industries, such as decarbonization and green shipping. "This forum provides us with an opportunity to share information, exchange best practices, enhance cooperation among ASEAN shipping entities, and find solutions to challenges facing ASEAN shipping," she explained. Carmelia added that the FASA meeting in Bali also serves as a platform for delegates from FASA member countries and shipping businesses in ASEAN to network. "The business opportunities and increased cooperation among FASA members in ASEAN involve support in ship financing, ship insurance, and shipyards," she concluded.
