ASDP Deploys Two Robust Ferries to Aid NTT Recovery

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) continues to optimise its role through two robust vessels, KMP Ile Labalekan and KMP Ile Ape, which have been deployed to support post-earthquake handling and recovery in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). ASDP President Director Heru Widodo said the two ferries carry different support according to needs on the ground, but share the same goal of helping affected communities and regions recover more quickly.

“As part of humanitarian support, the mobilisation of personnel, vehicles, equipment, and disaster relief aid through these two vessels is free of charge,” Heru said in a written statement in Jakarta on Thursday (20/8/2026).

Heru said this support reflects ASDP’s commitment to helping ensure emergency response needs can move quickly to affected communities. He confirmed that KMP Ile Ape departed from Kewapante Port in Maumere bound for Palue, Sikka Regency.

“The vessel is carrying Sikka Police personnel, medical staff, vehicles, and heavy equipment needed to support evacuation and material handling following the disaster,” Heru continued.

In emergency situations, Heru said, ferry connectivity plays a strategic role because it allows personnel, medical staff, equipment, and resources to move towards areas requiring support. ASDP, he added, remains committed to supporting disaster response in NTT through its ferry connectivity.

“The mobilisation of personnel, medical staff, and heavy equipment is an important part of accelerating the handling and recovery process in affected areas,” Heru said.

Heru explained that KMP Ile Ape departed from Kewapante at 17:30 WITA and arrived in Palue at 22:25 WITA. The voyage carried 35 adult passengers, comprising Sikka Police personnel, including five doctors, as well as vehicles and equipment supporting disaster response.

Heru detailed that the cargo included six Class II R-2 vehicles, three Class IV R-4 goods vehicles, and two Class IX excavator units. The equipment will be used to assist evacuation and material handling in disaster-affected areas of Palue, Sikka Regency.

Previously, KMP Ile Labalekan had also been deployed to support the mobilisation of aid for communities affected by the earthquake in NTT.

“The presence of these two vessels strengthens ASDP’s role in ensuring disaster response needs can move through ferry routes,” Heru said.