Jakarta, INTI – As part of ongoing efforts to build Indonesia’s new capital (IKN) as a city of the future, the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has introduced the Smart and Green Passenger Ship an intelligent, eco-friendly passenger vessel specifically designed for the surrounding waters of East Kalimantan.
Maritime Transport Innovation for Coastal Connectivity
Located along the coast and surrounded by small islands, IKN requires reliable and environmentally friendly sea transport. Through its Center for Hydrodynamic Technology Research (PRTH), BRIN has developed a smart ship design aimed at improving interregional maritime connectivity while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions in the area.
This innovation was presented by Fariz Maulana Noor, a Junior Expert Engineer from PRTH, during the fifth edition of the Kelas Periset (Researcher’s Class) program, broadcast online via BRIN Indonesia’s YouTube channel on Thursday, 17, July.
Smart Technology Meets Sustainability
The Smart and Green Passenger Ship combines alternative energy sources with intelligent systems. The vessel is powered by solar panels and features a catamaran hull design that reduces wave resistance improving energy efficiency and minimizing ecological disruption.
This design not only supports low-emission operations but also helps protect the local marine ecosystem, including the habitat of the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin (locally known as pesut), a species endemic to East Kalimantan’s waterways.
Research and Collaboration as Key Drivers
Fariz emphasized that the development of this smart vessel is the result of ongoing research conducted by BRIN. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between research institutions and maritime industry stakeholders to enhance and refine this innovation.
“We are very open to research collaborations to further improve the Smart and Green Passenger Ship in the future,” he stated.
A Concrete Step Toward Sustainable Mobility
The introduction of this eco-friendly passenger ship underscores BRIN’s commitment to supporting IKN’s vision as a smart, green, inclusive, and resilient city. By utilizing renewable energy and efficient design, maritime transport can evolve into a daily mobility solution that is both functional and sustainable.
Conclusion:
The development of the Smart and Green Passenger Ship by BRIN represents a significant step toward realizing sustainable and intelligent transportation solutions in Indonesia’s future capital. By integrating renewable energy and smart design, the vessel offers an efficient alternative for daily mobility in coastal regions like IKN. Beyond reducing carbon emissions, this innovation also reflects BRIN’s broader commitment to environmental protection and inclusive urban development. With continued research and collaboration, the Smart and Green Passenger Ship holds great potential to become a model for eco-friendly maritime transport in Indonesia and beyond.
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