ASDP President Director Affirms Support for NTT Recovery via Maritime Connectivity
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The President Director of PT ASDSK Indonesia Ferry (Persero), Heru Widodo, has stated that the company provides full support for the recovery of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) following the earthquake by strengthening ferry connectivity. This involves deploying ships to transport aid, volunteers, and essential supplies for the affected communities.
“We want ASDP vessels to be part of the collective effort to deliver aid, volunteers, equipment, and basic necessities to those in need,” Heru confirmed in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He noted that amidst the recovery process in NTT, support is required not only in the form of direct aid but also through the access that allows such aid to reach the impacted regions.
To address this need, ASDP has redeployed the KMP Ile Ape to mobilise humanitarian aid to Palue, Sikka Regency. Departing from Kewapante Port, Maumere, the KMP Ile Ape is carrying 74 passengers, several vehicles, and approximately 5 tonnes of bulk goods. The vessel supports the fulfilment of community needs while strengthening post-disaster management processes.
Heru emphasised that the management is providing full support for the recovery of the NTT people. According to him, ferry connectivity plays a vital role when access to affected areas becomes a challenge in the recovery process.
“In situations like this, our task is not only to ensure ships sail, but to ensure connectivity can be utilised to help the community. Therefore, we continue to open opportunities for collaboration with the government, humanitarian agencies, the business world, communities, and the public,” said Heru.
In this particular voyage, KMP Ile Ape is transporting three Class II R-2 vehicles, one Class IV B vehicle, three Class V B vehicles, and approximately 5 tonnes of bulk goods. The mobilised aid includes food, drinking water, medicines and medical supplies, clothing, blankets, tents, bedding, nappies, and baby supplies.
ASDP also supports the mobilisation of vehicles and heavy equipment, including excavators, provided they meet all shipping safety and operational regulations.
ASDP Corporate Secretary Windy Andale added that this support will continue through coordination with regulators, local governments, authorities, humanitarian agencies, and relevant stakeholders.
“Recovery takes time and collective effort. As long as connectivity is required, ASDP will continue to strive to maintain ferry routes so that aid can move safely and reach its intended targets,” said Windy.
ASDP ensures that the safety of ships, crews, passengers, and cargo remains the priority in every mobilisation. Through maintained connectivity, ASDP is committed to supporting the people of NTT through the emergency response period and accelerating the steps towards recovery.