ASDP strengthens maritime connectivity between Indonesia and Malaysia
Jakarta (ANTARA) – PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) is continuing to explore opportunities to expand maritime connectivity between countries by considering the opening of an international ferry route between Dumai and Malacca, linking Indonesia and Malaysia.
The initiative was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between ASDP and Parameswara Ferry Terminal at ASDP’s head office. The agreement provides an initial basis for assessing market potential, operational readiness and the feasibility of developing the route.
“This exploration is part of the company’s efforts to expand opportunities for international ferry connectivity through a planned, research-based approach,” ASDP Operations and Transformation Director Rio Lasse said in a press release in Jakarta on Saturday.
The event was also attended by Indonesia’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Raden Dato’ Mohammad Iman Hascarya Kusumo; Indonesian Transport Attaché in Kuala Lumpur Sindu Rahayu; Economic Function Coordinator Fifi Afianita Firdaus; Indonesian Trade Attaché in Kuala Lumpur Aziza Rahmaniar Salam; Parameswara Ferry Terminal (M) Sdn. Bhd. Executive Director Datuk Shahrull Allam Shah bin Abdul Halim; the terminal’s Operations Director MD Yusshalman Bin MD Yusof; ASDP Technical Director Nana Sutisna; and other ASDP management representatives.
Rio said the MoU was an initial step for ASDP and Parameswara Ferry Terminal to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the potential Dumai–Malacca route.
“We want to ensure that every opportunity to develop connectivity is supported by objective studies, covering market potential, operational readiness, business feasibility and compliance with regulations in both countries,” Rio said.
The agreement provides a basis for the two parties to undertake a comprehensive business study covering potential market demand, passenger traffic projections, technical and operational considerations, port infrastructure readiness, and cross-border regulatory and licensing requirements. The study is expected to produce measurable recommendations to help determine whether developing the Dumai–Malacca route is feasible.
Under the MoU, the parties will exchange data and information, conduct market research and demand forecasting, assess the technical and operational requirements of ferry services, and evaluate the readiness of port infrastructure in Dumai and Malacca.
The study will also cover legal, regulatory and cross-border licensing matters; alternative cooperation arrangements and business models; and financial feasibility, including investment requirements, operating costs, revenue projections and business viability indicators.
“This collaboration gives both parties the opportunity to combine their experience and capabilities to identify opportunities as well as challenges in developing the route,” Rio added.
He said he hoped the study would provide a comprehensive picture of the route’s feasibility, allowing any decision to proceed to the next stage to be based on clear readiness and benefits for the parties and the public.
The exploration will also involve coordination with relevant authorities in Indonesia and Malaysia to identify the requirements and steps needed to develop an international ferry service. Cooperation among stakeholders will be important to ensure that any development plans comply with applicable regulations.
ASDP stressed that the MoU is an initial framework for conducting a business study and does not constitute a commitment to launch the route or make an investment. The findings will serve as evaluation material and recommendations for both parties as they consider possible next steps.
Through its exploration of the Dumai–Malacca route, ASDP is seeking opportunities to develop ferry connectivity based on business viability, improved accessibility and stronger economic ties between the two countries.
“This step is in line with ASDP’s role in developing integrated ferry and port services to support public mobility and sustainable regional connectivity,” he said.