ASDP to Fully Implement Port Sterilisation at Ketapang-Gilimanuk This Week

State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has announced that it will fully implement the sterilisation of six ferry ports, including Ketapang Port in Banyuwangi and Gilimanuk Port in Bali, starting 5 August 2026. Heru Widodo, President Director of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, stated that the sterilisation of these ports, particularly on the Ketapang-Gilimanuk route, is not merely an area management exercise but a transformation of operational culture that places safety as the primary foundation of ferry services. ‘Starting 5 August 2026, we have entered the full implementation phase of main port sterilisation, and this represents a change in operational culture that prioritises safety, security, and discipline,’ he said in a written statement confirmed in Banyuwangi on Monday. With the support of all relevant stakeholders, Heru expressed optimism that the implementation of main port sterilisation would strengthen the reliability of ferry services while delivering a better travel experience for the public. He noted that ahead of the full implementation, ASDP and all stakeholders had matured various aspects of readiness. These steps include socialisation to all parties operating within the port area, installation of signage and information media, and facial recognition-based data collection. ‘This also includes the optimisation of a single-gate system, distribution of personal protective equipment such as safety vests and helmets for operational area users, traffic flow management, and the strengthening of joint patrols and surveillance systems,’ Heru added. He added that the implementation of port sterilisation is tailored to the operational characteristics of each location, with the Ketapang-Gilimanud crossing focusing on increased socialisation to shipping companies, strengthening compliance with PPE usage, and routine joint patrols. Meanwhile, PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry Corporate Secretary Windy Andale added that the successful implementation of sterilisation is the result of collaboration between regulators, security forces, local governments, business operators, and the community. ‘The support we have received during the socialisation period up to the implementation preparation demonstrates a shared commitment to delivering a safer, more orderly, and more comfortable port. Sterilisation is a joint step in building a more professional and safety-oriented ferry service,’ she said.