“Welding is a universal language”

Jupri, could you describe your professional career?

I learned welding at PT PAL’s training centre in Indonesia. Admission was highly selective and required excellent results. After graduating, I had the opportunity to train for a year in Japan and six months in South Korea. This allowed me to perfect my skills and learn new techniques.

In 2025, as part of the SRI program, PT PAL selected the best welders from its teams for intensive training at the Naval Group site of Cherbourg in France. I volunteered immediately – it was an opportunity I couldn’t miss. I’m delighted to have been selected!

How was your training?

We alternated between theoretical and practical sessions. With guidance from the trainers, we learned new welding techniques and how to use very high-tech equipment. At the Naval Group Welding Training Centre, the standards are extremely high. Clément (see page 40) helped us reach our full potential. The bar was set very high, and we managed to reach it. That gives us confidence: if we succeeded here in Cherbourg in meeting these standards, then out in the field, we will be able to rise to the challenge as well.

Did language barriers hinder your learning?

It may seem surprising, but no, this wasn’t an issue. We were assisted by interpreters (see page 41) throughout our training. Welding is a universal language! We taught each other words along the way. The teams at Naval Group University (see page 42) had planned our training program down to the smallest detail. They even arranged visits to Paris and the Cité de la Mer in Cherbourg for us. Everything was organised to ensure our training took place under the best possible conditions.

What is your overall impression of the experience?

I am proud to apply my new skills to the SRI program and pass them on to my team in Indonesia.

I look forward to the French team visiting Surabaya. In just a few weeks, we forged very strong ties. Every day was characterised by dedication, excellence and good humour. I hope I’ll have the chance to attend the delivery of the first Scorpène® from the SRI program before I retire!