BY SHOREYANN RAGOSO
HONIARA, Solomon Islands – Smiles, teamwork and a shared meal brought people together in Honiara on Monday, 19 October 2026, as Indonesian Navy personnel reached out to local communities through a series of humanitarian activities.
Aboard the hospital ship KRI dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo-991, the Indonesian Navy’s Joint Task Force Port Visit 2026 visited the White River community, Mbokonavera Mosque, Vura Anglican Church and Transfiguration Vura School.
The team delivered essential supplies, building materials, religious equipment, sports gear and other items to support local families and institutions.
But the visit was about more than donations. In White River, Indonesian Navy personnel joined local residents to repair and repaint a basketball court, turning the work into a shared effort that brought people together.
The activity showed how simple acts of service can build friendship between people from different countries.
“The best part is not only receiving help, but working together and getting to know one another,” a message reflected by the joint effort.
Colonel (Navy) Bendictus Hery Murwanto, commander of the Joint Task Force Port Visit 2026, formally handed over the assistance to representatives of the White River community, Mbokonavera Mosque and Vura Anglican Church.
The Indonesian Defence Attaché to Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands, Colonel Suiyanto, and Assistant Defence Attaché Major Ferdianto also attended the activities.
The day ended with a communal meal shared by Indonesian Navy personnel and local residents. Around the table, people had a chance to talk, exchange experiences and learn about each other’s cultures.
The Embassy of Indonesia in Port Moresby welcomed the initiative, saying humanitarian activities help strengthen relations between Indonesia and Solomon Islands.
Through practical support and face-to-face engagement, Indonesia hopes to build lasting friendship, trust and cooperation with its Pacific neighbours.
For the people who took part, the visit left behind more than donated supplies and a refreshed basketball court. It offered a reminder that friendship grows when people work, share and care for one another.
