“Presence is Deterrence”. This cannot be achieved without proper maintenance of patrol vessels. Keeping patrol vessels in good condition and ready for operation at all times is the most important course of action to protect Palauan waters.
With the support of The Nippon Foundation, three sponsored officers from the Division of Maritime Security and Fish & Wildlife Protection (DMSFWP), Sergeant Kamrul Zaman, First Engineer, Officer lll Ronald Yashiro, Second Engineer, Officer lll Lenin Louis, Electrician, are attending 15-day mechanical training program at the engine manufacturer’s simulation center at Rolls-Royce Solutions Asia in Singapore from 8th to 26th July, 2024.
This is a highly specialized maintenance training tailor-made for the main engine of PSS KEDAM includes classroom lectures of the engine model, as well as hands-on engine disassembly and assembly using actual engine equipment.
PSS KEDAM was provided by The Nippon Foundation in 2017 and has been active in a wide range of activities. In particular, PSS KEDAM has been providing maritime surveillance and humanitarian missions for remote islands, including Helen Reef where the distance is approximately 380 nautical miles from Malakal. As the name suggests, Palau’s magnificent frigatebird namesake “KEDAM”, has been protecting the safety of Palauan waters by capturing the farthest range of sight.
Besides PSS KEDAM, The Nippon Foundation has also provided small patrol boats, “KABEKEL M’TAL”, “BUL”, “EUATEL” to DMSFWP through “Enhancing Coast Guard Capability in Three Micronesian Countries” Program. The foundation has been supporting incidental cost necessary for their operation such as fuel, maintenance, satellite communication, and training since the first boat was provided in 2012, and thereby continuously contributing to Palau’s maritime safety.
Sergent Zaman who completed the training said, “Attending the engine maintenance training has been a game changer for me. The comprehensive course provided in-depth knowledge on the workings of the main and auxiliary engine, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of its intricacies. The trainers’ expertise and interactive sessions made it easy to grasp complex concepts. I particularly appreciated the hands-on exercises and real-world examples that enable me to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Overall, I would highly recommend this training to anyone seeking to enhance their skills in engine maintenance and troubleshooting, to enhance professionalism and discipline in the marine diesel engineering “.