“It is an honor and pleasure for us because we have been offered cooperation in maritime by the government of Indonesia and South Korea. Previously, Oceanography Research Group of ITB had a cooperation with KIOST (Korean Institute of Ocean Science and Technology). With this research center, there are many things that can be developed about marine technology,” said Prof. Wawan in his remark.

He added that currently ITB manages 200 students in Cirebon Campus. Thus later on there will be lots of studies and researches on marine technology. The research center is built as the manifestation of ITB’s direction toward world class entrepreneurial university.

“This MTCRC is built to solve world’s problem in science and technology. With this, people’s expectation and hope to us is going higher. Thus, KIOST will send many researchers to collaborate with ITB in conducting researches. KIOST is ready to help facilitate so that the activity will run smoothly,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Regent of Cirebon, Sunjaya Purwadisastra who was present, expressed his gratitude for the selection of Cirebon Regency as one of ITB campus and for the inauguration of the MTCRC. He is eager to support all activities in ITB Cirebon Campus, one which is by giving 30 hectare area for development of ITB Cirebon Campus. “We will support all needs for researches conducted in ITB Cirebon Campus. The results of the researches are expected to benefit the nation and its people,” he said.

Jo Seung-hwan, Deputy Minister of Marine and Fishery of South Korea in his remark said that there has been cooperation also between Indonesia and South Korea in maritime by the effort of President Joko Widodo. “The opening of this research center is an achievement, an initial step towards conducting researches and developing science and technology, which I hope the benefits are not only for the surrounding community but as far as both countries,” he said

The inauguration of MTCRC was conducted by Agus Purwoto as the Secretary of Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs, and was also attended by the President of KIOST, Kim Woong-seo.