Balikpapan - A team of students from the Institut Teknologi Kalimantan (ITK) has once again achieved a remarkable accomplishment on the national stage. In the Ocean Innovation 2025 competition hosted by Hasanuddin University, a team from the Marine Engineering Study Program successfully secured 2nd Place in the Science and Technology category with their innovative project titled “SMART LOCAL PORT INNOVATION: Digitalizing Local Ports for Efficiency and Sustainability in Community Ferry Crossing at Balikpapan Bay.”

The team was led by Glorya Ditasari Patampang (14231017 – Marine Engineering), with members Lailatul Musyarrofah Sudirman (14231023 – Marine Engineering) and Oktavia Hadi Azzizah (14231031 – Marine Engineering), under the guidance of Ir. Ahmad Azwar Mas’ud M., S.T., M.T.

 Innovation: Digitalization of Local Ports for the Future of Community Ferry Services 

The SMART LOCAL PORT INNOVATION project was developed as a solution to the recurring issues faced in Balikpapan Bay—an essential route connecting Balikpapan and Penajam Paser Utara.
 Challenges such as long queues, high waiting times, limited dock capacity, and uneven passenger distribution served as the foundation for designing this innovative concept.

Through a digitalization approach, the innovation aims to:

• Improve the operational efficiency of local ports
• Enhance comfort and safety for ferry passengers
• Support sustainable infrastructure and environmental preservation

In preparation for the competition, the team underwent intensive mentoring sessions from September 1 to October 17, 2025, including pitching practices with their supervisor to refine both concept and presentation quality.

 Competition Journey 

The event took place from October 23–25, 2025, at Hasanuddin University in Makassar. Competing against participants from various universities across Indonesia, the ITK team confidently presented a comprehensive study that integrated marine engineering, digital technology, and sustainability principles.

Their engaging presentation captured the attention of the judges, earning them the title of 2nd Place Winner in Ocean Innovation 2025.

 Messages and Hopes 

Team leader Glorya Ditasari Patampang shared her hopes for fellow ITK students:“I hope this competition inspires all ITK students to continue striving for excellence,” she said.

This achievement highlights the capability and quality of ITK students in providing real-world solutions to maritime and port-related challenges in Indonesia. It also serves as a motivation for more students to innovate, compete, and excel at the national and international levels.