Royal Australian Navy Midshipman at Pusdiklat Bahasa KemhanTweet

Two young Australian Navy officers have spent the past six months improving their understanding of Indonesia’s language and culture. 21-year-old Midshipman Morgan Groves and 22-year-old Midshipman Jordana McLeod have been studying at Pusdiklat Bahasa – the Indonesian Ministry of Defence language school. Morgan and Jordana beat out a competitive field to come to Jakarta and each says the experience has been extremely valuable. For Morgan, the opportunity to learn Indonesian was the standout. ‘The language skills we have gathered during our months in Jakarta is far superior than what we could have achieved at home,’ he said. Jordana is also leaving with a greater appreciation for Indonesia’s language and culture. ‘Our studies allowed us to learn much more about the country’s many attractions and beliefs,’ she said. ‘The knowledge I have gathered about Islam was particularly important.’ The young officers are now returning to the Australian Defence Force Academy to complete their studies. The Pusdiklat Bahasa program is increasingly popular among ADFA cadets who are keen to deepen their knowledge of Australia’s nearest neighbour.