A newly built Indonesian naval ship docked at Jeddah’s Islamic Port en route from the United Kingdom (UK) back home.

The KRI Bung Tomo 357, a sophisticated and state-of-the-art type built in the UK, stayed at the port for three days and left on Saturday for Indonesia, according to Indonesian officials.

“Indonesia is the world’s largest archipelagic country, comprising more than 17,000 islands,” said Indonesian Ambassador Abdurrahman Muhammad Fachir. “As such, the nation is constantly strengthening naval defense forces to protect its vast territorial boundaries.”

The naval crew performed Umrah on their stopover in Jeddah. In addition, a reception hosted on board the ship was attended by Saudi Royal Navy Western command officials and selected diplomats from Asian countries, besides prominent Indonesian expatriates.

“Jeddah is the third stop of KRI Bung Tomo,” said the ambassador. “Saudi Arabia has been chosen for its excellent relations with Indonesia, which are highlighted by the facilities and assistance extended to our ship and allowing its crew to perform Umrah.”

The envoy added that the stopover in Jeddah also a part of an Indonesian naval diplomacy strategy to enhance bilateral relations between both countries.

The ambassador highlighted the role of Indonesian naval forces in maintaining the security of nation’s island.

“Indonesia has ordered the building of sophisticated ships in UK as part of a defense blueprint for the country,” he said.