REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, SURABAYA -- The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, Admiral Dr Marsetio, told his soldiers to expel foreign military ships entering Indonesian territory, including the district of Nunukan, North Kalimantan.

"We will expel foreign ships that enter Indonesian territory. We have the Ambalat Task Force as a joint operation in the Nunukan area," Marsetio said on Monday.

With regard to the Malaysian military ship that reportedly infiltrated the waters of Bunyu Island of North Kalimantan, the navy chief stated that the ship had been expelled by several Indonesian ships, including the Yos Sudarso-353 and Hiu-804, which were stationed in the area. The report also added that Malaysia allegedly claimed three villages in Nunukan district of North Kalimantan. The navy is investigating the allegation.

Marsetio further noted that commanders of the west and east navy fleets put in efforts to prevent such infiltration of foreign military ships in Indonesian waters in the future.

"We also conducted early detection drills that were coordinated with related ministries," the admiral affirmed.

Furthermore, the navy inaugurated Marine Infantry Batallion-10 in Batam Island on November 10, he pointed out, adding that this was part of efforts to enhance security in the waters of Riau and the Malaka Strait.

"The present of the battalion in Batam will, hopefully, enhance security," Marsetio remarked.

The navy chief attended the 69th anniversary celebrations of the Marine Corps at the FX Soepramono Range of Surabaya on Monday. As many as 5,054 cadres of the Marine Corps attended the event that was based on the theme of "Together with People in a Developing Nation."

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