As a seafarer, the need to continue your education and upgrade your skills is crucial to ensure your career growth and success. One way to achieve this is by obtaining a Buku Pelaut Perpanjang or a Certificate of Competency (COC) Extension Book, which serves as proof that you have undergone additional training and met the standards required for your next rank or position. In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about Buku Pelaut Perpanjang, from its purpose to the steps you need to take to get it.
What is Buku Pelaut Perpanjang?
Buku Pelaut Perpanjang, also known as STCW Certificate of Competency (COC) Extension Book, is a document that proves a seafarer’s eligibility to work in higher positions on board a ship. The STCW or Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers is an international convention that sets the minimum standards required for seafarers to work on ships engaged in international voyages. The COC Extension Book is issued by the country where the seafarer obtained their original COC.
Why Do You Need Buku Pelaut Perpanjang?
Obtaining a Buku Pelaut Perpanjang is necessary if you want to qualify for higher positions on board a ship. With an extended COC, you can work as a chief officer, second engineer, or master mariner, among others. It also enhances your chances of getting hired by reputable shipping companies that require seafarers with advanced skills and knowledge. Additionally, it shows your commitment to continuous learning and improvement, which is highly valued in the maritime industry.
Who Can Apply for Buku Pelaut Perpanjang?
Seafarers who hold a valid STCW COC can apply for Buku Pelaut Perpanjang. The extension book is issued for specific ranks or positions, depending on the seafarer’s qualifications. For example, if you hold a COC as a third officer, you can apply for an extension to become a second officer. However, you cannot apply for an extension to become a chief officer if you only have a third officer COC.
How to Obtain Buku Pelaut Perpanjang?
The process of obtaining Buku Pelaut Perpanjang may vary depending on the country or flag state where the seafarer obtained their original COC. However, the basic steps are as follows:
- Contact the maritime authority or administration in your country or the flag state where your COC was issued to inquire about the requirements and procedures for obtaining Buku Pelaut Perpanjang.
- Complete the necessary training and assessments to meet the standards required for the rank or position you are applying for.
- Submit the application form and supporting documents, which may include your original COC, training certificates, and medical fitness certificate.
- Pay the application fee and wait for the processing of your application. The processing time may take several weeks to months, depending on the workload of the maritime authority.
- Once your application is approved, you will receive your Buku Pelaut Perpanjang, which has a validity period of five years. You need to renew it before it expires to continue working in higher positions.
What Are the Requirements for Buku Pelaut Perpanjang?
The requirements for obtaining Buku Pelaut Perpanjang may vary depending on the country or flag state. However, the general requirements are as follows:
- A valid STCW COC
- Completion of the required training and assessments for the rank or position you are applying for
- Medical fitness certificate
- Application form and supporting documents
- Application fee
What Are the Benefits of Having Buku Pelaut Perpanjang?
Having Buku Pelaut Perpanjang comes with several benefits for seafarers, including:
- Increased career opportunities and higher salary
- Recognition of your skills and knowledge by reputable shipping companies
- Improved safety and efficiency on board a ship
- Opportunities for personal and professional growth
Conclusion
Buku Pelaut Perpanjang is an essential document that seafarers must obtain if they want to advance their career and work in higher positions on board a ship. It requires additional training and assessments to prove that the seafarer has met the standards required for the rank or position they are applying for. Having Buku Pelaut Perpanjang enhances the seafarer’s career opportunities, salary, and recognition by reputable shipping companies. If you want to obtain Buku Pelaut Perpanjang, make sure to inquire about the requirements and procedures from your maritime authority or administration and complete the necessary training and assessments.
