The Faculty of Engineering at Unhas Hosted a Visit from the First Secretary for Economic Affairs at the Dutch Embassy to Discuss Strategic Collaboration and South Sulawesi’s Maritime Potential.

Makassar, April 15, 2025 – The Faculty of Engineering at Hasanuddin University (FT Unhas) welcomed a visit from Mr. Michael Mackloet, First Secretary for Economic Affairs at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, who was accompanied by Indy Kateriamalia, Senior Economic Affairs Officer at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Indonesia. The purpose of this visit was to strengthen bilateral relations and explore opportunities for strategic cooperation, particularly in the fields of education, technological research, and maritime potential in South Sulawesi.

The meeting, which took place at the FT Unhas Gowa Campus, was led directly by the Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs at FT Unhas, Prof. Dr. Ir. Ahmad Amil Ilham, S.T., M.IT., along with the faculty leadership. The Embassy delegation was warmly welcomed and given a brief overview of the Faculty of Engineering.

Discussions during this visit focused on developing cooperation, particularly within departments related to maritime development. This was a key point given the immense potential of the maritime sector in South Sulawesi—ranging from natural resources and port technology to the development of a sustainable maritime industry.

Mr. Michael expressed his interest in the maritime potential of Eastern Indonesia, particularly South Sulawesi, which is considered strategic for the development of the blue economy. He also expressed his appreciation for Unhas’ openness in building international synergies for innovation and sustainability.

This visit is expected to mark the beginning of a sustainable partnership between Unhas and Dutch institutions, as well as strengthen the role of universities in developing regional potential, particularly in the maritime and fisheries sectors—which are the mainstays of South Sulawesi’s economy.