Joining the Airlangga Maritime Week (AMW) 2025 was an extraordinary and meaningful experience for our team. Traveling from Malang to Surabaya on September 12, we carried mixed feelings of fear, nervousness, and excitement. It was beyond our imagination that we would make it this far—to stand as finalists and proudly represent our alma mater, SMA Negeri 1 Malang. Upon arriving at the hotel, we took a short rest before attending the technical meeting at 7:30 p.m., where the presentation order was determined through a spin. Our group received the third slot. Later that night, we continued preparing at a nearby café, accompanied and guided by our dedicated teacher, Mrs. Lusi. That evening was filled with a sense of togetherness and determination as we practiced relentlessly. Although we returned to the hotel for rest, the anticipation of the next day made it hard to sleep. By 3 a.m., we were already awake—praying and preparing everything with hope that all would go smoothly.
The competition day, September 13, marked an unforgettable moment in our journey. As we arrived at the venue, our hearts raced faster. The committee welcomed us warmly, and our liaison officer (LO) provided kind and attentive assistance throughout the event. The tension escalated when one of our teammates fainted, forcing our presentation slot to be moved to the last session. Despite this setback, we witnessed how quickly and professionally the organizing team handled the situation. During the presentation, they even ensured that our teammate could sit comfortably so that the session could proceed without issues. Every moment was filled with adrenaline, passion, and a strong will to give our best performance.
The most emotional part came during the announcement of winners. Never did we expect to achieve second place. Tears of joy flowed instantly as our hard work and perseverance finally bore fruit. The victory was not only for ourselves but also a heartfelt tribute to our beloved alma mater, SMA Negeri 1 Malang. After the ceremony, we took photos in front of Universitas Airlangga’s Rectorate Building, feeling proud and deeply moved. The moment symbolized the essence of achievement and the spirit of learning that AMW truly represents.
From this journey, I learned that perseverance, teamwork, and prayer always lead to beautiful outcomes. Airlangga Maritime Week 2025 was more than just a competition—it was a platform for growth, resilience, and networking among passionate young minds from various regions. It taught us not only about maritime innovation but also about the importance of character, collaboration, and courage in pursuing our dreams.
I sincerely hope that AMW will continue to thrive and inspire more young generations to innovate for a sustainable maritime future in Indonesia. My deepest gratitude goes to the organizing committee, our LO, and everyone who supported and accompanied us throughout this journey. Airlangga Maritime Week 2025 will forever remain a cherished memory, a reminder of how dedication and unity can lead to excellence.
