The UGM Diving Unit conducted its Open Water Training (LPT XXXV) in the waters of the Karimunjawa Islands from May 11 to 15. This annual open water diving activity also marked the 38th anniversary of the UGM Diving Unit.
A total of 47 students and four instructors, two of whom are alumni, participated in the diving sessions around the islands, followed by dives at two sites off the coast of Menjangan Besar Island.
“The first site, Titik Kagama, is a shallow sandy diving spot ideal for adapting to saltwater conditions and reinforcing basic diving skills. The second site, Maer, is deeper and poses a more advanced challenge for participants,” said Muhammad Raditya, Head of the UGM Diving Unit, in a statement to reporters on Monday, May 26, 2025.
On the third day, Raditya continued, the participants underwent further training at Cemara Besar Island. With its clear waters and gradually sloping depths, the site was ideal for touring practice.
“Participants were treated to the beauty of colorful coral reefs and small fish species such as sergeant majors, chromis, and wrasse swimming among the coral crevices,” he said.
After each dive, participants attended evaluation and briefing sessions to review techniques and prepare for the next day’s activities.
The training materials included mask and snorkel clearing, buddy breathing, hovering, touring without a mask, and other skills based on the established curriculum.
“All activities were carried out according to standard operating procedures,” Raditya explained.
Andez Putra Pratama, one of the participants, expressed his delight at joining the training.
It was not only the Karimunjawa location that excited him, but also the fact that it was his first diving experience.
“It was truly memorable. I got to see how beautiful the underwater world is, and it made me realize how vast this world really is,” Pratama recalled.
Despite some challenging weather conditions during the training period, he said the entire program ran smoothly according to plan.
Raditya emphasized that the diving training was aimed at strengthening regeneration within the UGM Diving Unit and cultivating a new generation of resilient young divers who have a deep love for the ocean.
“We hope this training leaves a lasting impression on our new members,” he said.
Author: Rahma Khoirunnisa
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Lintang Andwyna
Photographs: UGM Diving Unit