Kayangan Port Quiet Amid Demonstrations Over Sumbawa Province Expansion

Kayangan Port in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), appears quiet. This situation has emerged alongside demonstrations concerning the expansion of the Sumbawa Island Province (PPS), which are taking place at various locations across Sumbawa Island.

Observations at the site on Tuesday (2/6/2026) showed that activity at the Kayangan ferry terminal, which connects to Poto Tano, appeared sparse. While some vehicles were seen queuing, the lines were dominated by motorcycles.

Logistics trucks, which typically dominate the queues, were notably absent. Only a few private cars and medium-sized buses were seen waiting for departure schedules.

This decline in passenger numbers is also being felt by street vendors in the port area. Mustaqim, one of the traders, admitted that his turnover has decreased due to the lack of passenger activity.

“It is quite quiet, because there are protests in Sumbawa; word is they are demonstrating at Poto Tano Port,” Mustaqim told detikBali on Tuesday (2/6/2026).

According to him, there have been very few transactions since the morning. The lack of passengers has directly impacted the income of local traders.

Meanwhile, the General Manager of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, Kayangan Branch, Erlisetya Wahyudi, confirmed that the Kayangan-Poto Tano ferry services continue to operate as usual. He emphasised that the situation on the ground remains under control and is not disrupting maritime activities.

“The current condition is still conducive and safe, and the vehicle lanes are flowing smoothly,” Erli explained.

It is reported that large-scale demonstrations are being held by the PPS alliance today. The protesters are demanding the revocation of the moratorium on new autonomous regions (DOB) so that Sumbawa Island can become a new province.

The protests are planned to take place simultaneously across five regencies/cities on Sumbawa Island, namely West Sumbawa, Sumbawa, Dompu, Bima, and Bima City. Protesters have also reportedly threatened to close Poto Tano Port in West Sumbawa Regency (KSB).