Ahead of Peak Lebaran Exodus, Pelni Ship Passenger Numbers Rise 3.2 Per Cent

JAKARTA — PT Pelayaran Nasional Indonesia or PT Pelni (Persero) recorded a significant surge of 3.2 per cent as the peak Lebaran exodus approached for the Islamic year 1447 H.

This increase was partly influenced by the Work From Anywhere (WFA) policy implemented by the government on 16-17 March 2026.

Based on data as of 16 March 2026 at 08:00 Western Indonesian Time, the number of ticket sales for the exodus period departing 6-22 March 2026 had reached 278,530 tickets.

“The realisation of passenger numbers for the departure period 6-15 March 2026 reached 185,697 people, or an increase of approximately 3.2 per cent compared to the same period in the previous year which was only 179,972 people,” said Pelni Company Secretary Ditto Pappilanda in a written statement on Monday (16/3/2026).

“We see that enthusiasm for the exodus this year is far higher than in previous years. To anticipate this, we have increased overall operational readiness by adding service personnel and implementing strict supervision aboard ships and at ports,” said Ditto.

Ditto also added that the peak exodus period for Pelni ships is estimated to occur on 18 March 2026, or H-minus 3 days before Lebaran, with passenger numbers reaching 27,350 passengers.

“Pelni has provided 751,550 tickets during the Lebaran transport period from 6 March to 6 April 2026. The western routes, particularly Batam-Belawan, are predicted to be the busiest route this year,” explained Ditto.

Ditto also reminded passengers to always comply with safety protocols aboard ships, maintain cleanliness and follow crew instructions during the journey.

“We urge all prospective passengers to book tickets well in advance through official channels to avoid long queues at ports,” said Ditto.

“We also ensure that every Pelni ship and crew member is ready to serve the community wholeheartedly,” Ditto emphasised.