National

Navy Prepares Force for Ambalat
Monday, 07 March, 2005 | 17:50 WIB

“We are already on second stage alert and ready to send ships and troops to Ambalat Island,” said the Admiral First Class Budhiharto on Riau Island, Monday (7/3).
However, according to Budhiharto, the deployment of the naval force depends on the President’s decision as well as the results of negotiations between the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Malaysian government.
“If we receive the order, we are ready.” He said.
Indonesian Navy Base VII controls the West Fleet, which has 17 warships with around 1,200s troop personnel ready for action.

Riau Regional Police Chief Brigadier General Damanhuri said that police personnel have been prepared in anticipation of any border problems with the Malaysian government on Ambalat Island.
“Defending the sovereignty of the nation is what is most important,” said Damanhuri, without mentioning how many personnel had been prepared.
l rumbadi dalle