ASDP boosts Bajoe Wharf capacity to strengthen inter-island ferry crossings and logistics

Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has increased the capacity of Bajoe Wharf in Bone Regency, South Sulawesi, so interregional ferry services and logistics distribution can operate more smoothly and efficiently. ASDP’s Corporate Secretary Windy Andale said the effort was carried out by re-operating the moveable bridge (MB) connecting the wharf and the vessel at Bajoe Port after a comprehensive revitalisation was completed. ‘The introduction of the new moveable bridge marks an important step in strengthening inter-island connectivity while improving safety and comfort for the service users,’ Windy said in a statement in Jakarta on Thursday. He noted that MB operation was marked by a berthing test on Thursday, after ASDP had completed the commissioning phase and load testing in collaboration with stakeholders. The revitalisation involved a total replacement of the MB structure and hydraulic system, increasing capacity from 30 tonnes to 50 tonnes. In addition, ASDP reinforced the trestle bridge leading to the MB to ensure port operations are safer, more stable and reliable in the long term. The port facility refresh, including repainting, was also carried out to present a more comfortable and representative port environment. Windy said the MB revitalisation at Bajoe Port is part of the company’s commitment to delivering increasingly high-quality ferry services. ‘The improvement to the MB is expected to enhance operational smoothness, safety, and comfort for ferry service users,’ Windy said. He added that infrastructure development should not focus solely on the physical aspects but must deliver tangible benefits to surrounding communities. During the revitalisation process, ASDP implemented a range of social programmes such as food aid distributions and entrepreneurship training for Bajoe residents. Regent Andi Asman Sulaiman praised the involvement of around 25 local residents in the MB revitalisation works and port facilities in the area. The Regent regards Bajoe Port as holding a strategic position in supporting regional economic growth and mobility. ‘We thank ASDP for the pier’s improvements. It is our joint duty to maintain and care for it,’ said Andi Asman. The Regent hoped Bajoe Port connectivity could continue to be expanded through the addition of ferry routes to various other regions. Meanwhile, Anom S. Panatagama, General Manager of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) Bajoe Branch, explained that the revitalised wharf is designed to be durable for up to 20 years. ‘We are grateful that the repair process was completed on target and is ready to support the smooth ferry services for the public,’ said Anom. Currently, the Bajoe Branch of ASDP serves two commercial routes: Bajoe–Kolaka and Siwa–Tobaku, and two pioneer routes Maccini Baji–Sabutung and Maccini Baji–Balanglompo. In addition to infrastructure strengthening, ASDP is also continuing to improve port security through a joint drill simulating handling of a bomb threat on 16 May 2026 with Bone Police Resort, Gegana Detachment of South Sulawesi, Brimob’s Battalion C, and the Port Area Police Sector. The move is part of efforts to strengthen preparedness and coordination in dealing with emergencies in the port environment.