ASDP targets mid-2027 launch for Batam–Johor RoRo service

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) is targeting the launch of a Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) service between Batam and Johor by mid-2027, aiming to strengthen Indonesia–Malaysia connectivity, particularly in supporting cross-border mobility, trade, investment, and logistics. ASDP Director of Operations and Transformation Rio Lasse stated that various preparations and coordination efforts with stakeholders are ongoing to ensure operational readiness for the service. “We hope the Batam–Johor RoRo service can commence operations by the middle of next year. However, its realisation requires readiness and collaboration from all parties, especially regarding regulations, infrastructure, and the alignment of cross-border processes between the two countries,” Rio said in an official statement received in Jakarta on Thursday. The planned RoRo service will connect Bintang 99 Persada Port in Batam with Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal in Johor. With a distance of approximately 27 nautical miles, this corridor is considered strategically positioned to support more integrated movement of passengers, vehicles, and cargo. He explained that the service’s operation still requires the fulfilment of several aspects, ranging from infrastructure readiness and regulations to approvals from the Indonesian and Malaysian governments. In terms of facilities, Bintang 99 Persada Port in Batam is already available, while the Tanjung Belungkor terminal still requires some upgrades to support the planned operations. He noted that the market potential for the Batam–Johor corridor is also supported by high people mobility. ASDP data recorded around 193,000 Malaysian tourists visiting Batam throughout 2024. Meanwhile, from a logistics perspective, Batam has several potential export commodities, including animal and vegetable products, cocoa, and chemical products. Based on initial assessments, cargo volume in the early stages is expected to remain below 50 trucks. Therefore, capacity and service patterns will be developed gradually in line with market demand growth. The company views that the successful development of the Batam–Johor corridor requires four main foundations: governance, regulation, infrastructure, and market. According to Rio, these four aspects must be developed in parallel through coordination between governments, regulators, border authorities, port operators, logistics players, and businesses in both countries. Furthermore, the development of the Batam–Johor corridor aligns with the outcomes of the 13th Annual Consultation Indonesia–Malaysia on 29 July 2025, which reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to strengthening cross-border connectivity, including through RoRo services. This commitment was followed up through a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) titled “Strategic Discussion on Cross-Border RoRo Connectivity and Bilateral Collaboration,” initiated by ASDP together with the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru on Wednesday (12 August). Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in Johor Bahru Sigit S Widiyanto said the Batam–Johor RoRo service not only opens new transport connectivity but also has the potential to more directly link two economic growth areas in Batam and Johor.