ASDP-Owned Batumandi Ferry Catches Fire as It Approaches Merak Port

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) confirmed that a fire broke out aboard KMP Batumandi near Merak Besar Island as the vessel was manoeuvring to berth at Pier VI of Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten, on Tuesday (20 October 2026) afternoon.

The ferry had departed Bakauheni Port at about 14:52 WIB. At around 16:15 WIB, shore-based personnel spotted sparks at the rear stern of the vessel, on the upper deck used to carry small vehicles.

“Response efforts are still under way, involving a joint team from the port, Basarnas and the police. ASDP confirms that all passengers and crew have been successfully evacuated,” the company’s Corporate Secretary, Windy Andale, said in a statement.

ASDP is continuing to coordinate closely with port authorities, Basarnas and relevant agencies to ensure that the response and evacuation are carried out effectively.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. ASDP said it would support the investigation by the authorities and provide regular updates based on verification at the scene.

Passenger and crew safety is ASDP’s top priority, the company said. It is providing the necessary support and ensuring that the incident is handled swiftly and in a coordinated manner, with safety given precedence.