Navy to build marines infantry brigade in S Sulawesi

Makassar, S Sulawesi (ANTARA News) - The Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) will soon build a marines infantry brigade in Pinrang district, South Sulawesi, to strengthen security in the Makassar Strait known as Indonesian Islands Waterway II.

"We will build it as soon as possible, depending on the preparedness of the Pinrang district administration in preparing the required land and promoting the local people`s understanding about the matter," Naval Chief of Staff Admiral Slamet Soebijanto said Thursday.

He made the remarks on the sidelines of his visit to observe the planned location for the marines infantry brigade at Ujung Lero village about 200 km north of Makassar, the capital of South Sulawesi province.

The marines infantry brigade will be the second of its kind to be overseen by the Naval Base VI after the one in Makassar.

However, the naval chief stopped short of mentioning the number of personnel to serve at the marines infrantry brigade.

"We will adjust their number to the need," he said.

He said the village was chosen as the location for the marines infantry brigade as it had strategic position.

"The Makassar Strait is passed through by many international ships. So we must secure the waters well. Otherwise, our image in the eyes of the international community will be bad," he said.