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Sailing Through Time: A Tribute to 104 Years of PIP Makassar’s Maritime Legacy
Makassar, October 12, 2025 — For more than a century, Politeknik Ilmu Pelayaran (PIP) Makassar has stood as a proud symbol of Indonesia’s maritime strength and spirit. As the institution celebrates its 104th anniversary, one alumnus — Prof. Dr. Capt. Eddy Sumartono, DBA., Ph.D., from Class XVII (1996) — takes this moment not only to congratulate but to reflect, honor, and inspire.
His heartfelt congratulatory tribute displayed before the Geomaritim Building is not just a gesture of remembrance; it is a symbol of gratitude and lifelong respect. It represents the voice of an alumnus who continues to carry the essence of PIP Makassar across the oceans and into the realm of global leadership and academia.
From Deck to Doctorate: A Captain’s Lifelong Voyage
Capt. Eddy’s journey began where many great mariners start — aboard the open seas. Trained within the disciplined walls of PIP Makassar, he learned not only the science of navigation but the philosophy of endurance. His career spanned international waters as a Master Mariner, commanding merchant vessels across the globe before charting a new course into academia, leadership, and research.
“PIP Makassar didn’t just teach me to sail ships; it taught me to sail through life — to face the storms, to remain steadfast, and to lead with heart,” he reflects.
Those lessons of discipline and integrity remain at the core of his success, guiding him from the bridge of vessels to university halls, and now into the wider sphere of maritime leadership development.
A Century of Excellence and Purpose
Celebrating its 104th Dies Natalis, PIP Makassar is more than an educational institution — it is a living testament to Indonesia’s maritime identity. It has produced thousands of maritime officers and professionals who continue to serve around the world, steering ships, managing ports, and shaping policies.
Prof. Capt. Eddy believes this milestone is not merely about age, but endurance and relevance.
“We are the living continuation of PIP Makassar’s history. The best way to honor our alma mater is by leading with character, contributing with integrity, and inspiring with humility,” he affirms.
He further highlights the importance of adapting maritime education to meet the digital era. Artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven logistics, he explains, are the new compass points guiding the future of shipping — and PIP Makassar must remain at the forefront of this transformation.
Empowering Future Maritime Leaders
Beyond academia, Prof. Capt. Eddy now serves as the founder and leader of PT Global Maritime Leadership, a center dedicated to developing professional ethics, managerial excellence, and leadership among maritime professionals.
“True leadership at sea is not only about navigating the vessel — it’s about navigating people. It’s about trust, communication, and responsibility,” he says with conviction.
His publications, such as “Maritime Leadership: Human Resource Management for Ship Masters and Officers” and “Digital Supply Chain: Shipping Transformation in the Era of Industry 4.0,” serve as guiding literature for maritime professionals seeking balance between technical skill and human-centered leadership.
Lessons from the Past, Vision for the Future
For Prof. Capt. Eddy, being an alumnus of PIP Makassar is a badge of honor that continues to shape his philosophy.
“Every moment at PIP — from early drills to ocean voyages — built the values that I carry into every professional and academic endeavor,” he recalls.
He often reminds younger cadets that maritime life is not merely a profession, but a calling. It is about protecting life at sea, preserving the marine environment, and nurturing a sense of purpose beyond personal ambition. The sea, he believes, teaches humility as much as it teaches courage.
Inspiring Indonesia’s Next Generation of Mariners
The congratulatory message that now stands proudly before PIP Makassar carries a deeper meaning — it is a call for renewal, unity, and forward-thinking among Indonesia’s maritime community. Prof. Capt. Eddy’s words echo through every deck and classroom:
“We are born of the sea, tempered by the waves, and strengthened by the storms. Change is not our enemy — it is our proving ground.”
He extends heartfelt appreciation to the educators, instructors, and administrators of PIP Makassar who have upheld its legacy through discipline and excellence. Their commitment, he says, ensures that Indonesia will remain a maritime nation recognized for its strength, professionalism, and vision.
Charting a Global Maritime Vision
Marking over a century of service, PIP Makassar’s legacy is not defined by years alone, but by the waves of impact it continues to create. For Prof. Capt. Eddy, this anniversary should ignite a renewed spirit of collaboration among alumni, scholars, and maritime leaders to shape Indonesia’s maritime sovereignty and global influence.
“Indonesia must not simply sail in its own waters — we must lead them,” he declares. “Let us become innovators, educators, and global leaders who represent the best of our maritime heritage.”
Through education, innovation, and ethical leadership, he envisions a new era where Indonesian mariners not only navigate the seas but define the future of maritime governance and sustainability.
A Beacon of Pride and Gratitude
The flower tribute displayed at the Geomaritim Building is more than a celebration of tradition — it is a reflection of love, humility, and devotion. It reminds every visitor that behind every successful mariner stands a story of perseverance and pride.
As PIP Makassar sails into its next century, the message from Prof. Dr. Capt. Eddy Sumartono, DBA., Ph.D. resonates deeply:
“Sail with purpose, lead with compassion, and let your light guide others through the storm.”
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