Government Apologises for Vehicle Congestion at Gilimanuk Port

The government has acknowledged several challenges in implementing the smooth flow of traffic during the 2026 Lebaran homecoming exodus, particularly regarding vehicle congestion at the Ketapang-Gilimanuk ferry crossing. State Secretary (Mensesneg) Prasetyo Hadi conveyed an apology for the inconvenience and assured that intensive monitoring would continue.

“There were indeed some incidents for which we apologise; there was congestion due to quite extraordinary traffic at the Ketapang and Gilimanuk crossings,” said Prasetyo at the Defence Ministry in Jakarta on Tuesday (17 March).

Prasetyo emphasised that field personnel are working hard to find technical solutions to ease the long queues amid increased public mobility at the end of Ramadan. The government is committed to ensuring the entire homecoming period this year runs safely, smoothly, and in a controlled manner.

“As we conveyed during the Plenary Cabinet Session chaired by the President, the government has worked hard to anticipate and ensure all homecoming and return-to-village activities proceed well and smoothly,” said Prasetyo.

Previously, during a Plenary Cabinet Session at the State Palace on Friday (13 March), President Prabowo Subianto had instructed his administration to finalise Lebaran preparations. One key focus is alleviating the public burden through ticket price discounts.

“First, I ask the Minister of Transport to ensure that the ticket price discount policy is implemented as optimally as possible, including discounts for aeroplane tickets, trains, ships, and toll roads, and to ensure good service at every location,” stated President Prabowo.

To guarantee smooth travel flow, the President also instructed the TNI Commander and National Police Chief to mobilise transportation facilities and personnel to assist public mobility. The government is fully committed to ensuring this year’s homecoming activities proceed safely and with minimal disruptions.