During a visit to the Military Academy (Akmil) in Magelang, cadets from the Royal Military College-Duntroon (RMC-D) in Australia expressed their admiration for the discipline and hard work demonstrated by Indonesian cadets. The visit was part of the signing of an enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) between Indonesia and Australia, attended by Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles, and Indonesia’s Defense Minister, Prabowo Subianto.
Maxwell Jon Kiernan, one of the Australian cadets, mentioned that he observed a strong work ethic and discipline among the Indonesian cadets at Akmil. Similarly, Lola Kathleen May Charles from RMC-D was inspired by the dedication of the Indonesian cadets to their training and studies.
Captain Damon Radford, an exchange officer, revealed that ten Australian cadets took part in the visit to Akmil, engaging in various activities with the Indonesian cadets such as mentoring sessions and language classes. They also had the opportunity to visit cultural landmarks and cities in Indonesia.
The visit was part of the Foreign Academy Exchange Program (FAEP) aimed at fostering cooperation between Australia and Indonesia. Minister Prabowo Subianto, who participated in the FAEP at RMC-D in 1974, was highlighted as an example of the program’s success in improving skills between the two countries.
The exchange program will continue with Indonesian cadets scheduled to visit Australia from October 10-21, following the successful visit of Australian cadets to Akmil.