ASDP Operates KMP Portlink III to Strengthen Java–Sumatra Connectivity
Jakarta (ANTARA) - PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has begun operating KMP Portlink III to strengthen services on the Merak–Bakauheni crossing and maintain connectivity between Java and Sumatra. The vessel forms part of the company’s strategic fleet readiness efforts, supporting public mobility and logistics.
ASDP President Director Heru Widodo said the vessel’s arrival was part of the company’s efforts to strengthen fleet readiness on one of the country’s strategic ferry routes, which plays an important role in connecting Java and Sumatra.
“The operation of KMP Portlink III is part of our efforts to strengthen fleet readiness and maintain the continuity of ferry services,” Heru said in a confirmed statement in Jakarta on Tuesday.
ASDP is continuing to strengthen services on the Merak–Bakauheni route through the operation of KMP Portlink III, which began serving passengers on Sunday (25 October).
Heru said the vessel’s operation was part of the company’s efforts to ensure ferry services were ready, particularly on the strategic route linking the islands of Java and Sumatra.
“We hope the vessel’s presence will help ensure smooth journeys for passengers while supporting the movement of logistics, which is an important part of the public’s economic activity,” Heru said.
KMP Portlink III is scheduled to serve the Merak–Bakauheni route every day. Before entering service, it departed from Paciran on Thursday (22 October) at 16:50 Western Indonesian Time as part of preparations for its operation.
ASDP said it would ensure that the vessel’s operation complied with applicable safety requirements and operational regulations.
Coordination with relevant stakeholders is also continuing to support service readiness, so that the vessel can operate in accordance with regulations and on-the-ground service needs.
Heru emphasised that strengthening ferry services involved not only fleet readiness but also consistent application of safety and service standards for passengers.
He said safety remained the priority in all operational activities. The ferry operator continues to conduct evaluations and coordinate to ensure fleet readiness goes hand in hand with service quality.
“The hope is that Merak–Bakauheni ferry services can continue to support smooth journeys for the public and the distribution of logistics, which drive economic activity,” Heru added.
With the operation of KMP Portlink III, ASDP is continuing its efforts to strengthen reliable ferry services that meet passengers’ needs.
The company is committed to continuing to improve operational readiness and maintain service quality on the strategic route that serves as a key link between Java and Sumatra.