Bridge of hope from island to island called Pete-pete Laut

In the midst of the crashing waves of the Makassar Strait, the hopes of island residents living on 13 islands in Sangkarrang District, Makassar City, for sea transport facilities have become a reality with the arrival of the ‘pete-pete laut’, inaugurated by Makassar Mayor Munafri Arifuddin. For residents of the Spermonde Archipelago, the sea that had long been a physical barrier has turned into a connecting road thanks to the Pete-pete Laut. ‘Pete-pete’ is a distinctive Makassar term for city transport.

This free sea transport programme, served by KM Banawa Nusantara 27, is not merely a mode of transport. It is a tangible symbol of a fulfilled political promise, proof of the government’s commitment to erasing access inequality, and a manifestation of the spirit of nationalism that ensures no citizen is left behind in the remote corners of the country.

The presence of Pete-pete Laut did not happen instantly. Behind the inauguration held on Friday (12/6) at the Barrang Lompo Island Pier lies the narrative of Mayor Munafri Arifuddin’s long struggle. Across the blue expanse of the Makassar Strait, the lives of island communities have for years moved to a rhythm different from that of mainland residents. The beautiful sea is both a blessing and a challenge. It holds abundant natural wealth, yet at the same time presents limited access for those living on the outermost islands.

For residents of Sangkarrang Island District, travelling from one island to another is not just an ordinary activity. Behind every journey lies the struggle of students seeking knowledge, teachers dedicating themselves at island schools, health workers bringing services to the community, and families simply wanting to visit relatives on neighbouring islands. Now, that struggle is slowly finding a new path. The free sea transport programme launched by the Makassar City Government marks a new chapter for the lives of island communities.

For Rosdiana, a resident of Barrang Lompo Island, the presence of Pete-pete Laut is not just about a sailing ship. It is a symbol of the attention and state presence long awaited. ‘Masya Allah, this is very helpful for the community to travel between one island and another. Especially since it is free. We are very grateful to the Mayor,’ she said with a cheerful face and an expression of gratitude. Her words represent the voices of thousands of islanders who for years have had to struggle with limited inter-island transport.