KMP Batumandi Catches Fire; ASDP Chief Issues Apology

Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia – PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has confirmed that the response to the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi in waters near Merak Port is being carried out in accordance with applicable procedures, with safety as the priority and in coordination with joint response teams and the relevant authorities. All passengers and crew have reportedly been evacuated, while the incident response is ongoing.

ASDP President Director Heru Widodo expressed concern over the incident and said the safety of passengers and crew was the top priority throughout the response.

“We offer our deepest apologies for the fire aboard the KMP Batumandi in Merak. We also apologise to our customers and all those affected. Our main priority now is to ensure that everyone on board is safe and receives the assistance and care they need,” Heru said in a written statement on Tuesday (20 October 2026).

The incident began when the KMP Batumandi, which had departed Bakauheni Port for Merak at 14:32 Western Indonesian Time (WIB), was found to have sparks at the stern, on the upper deck for small vehicles, at about 16:15. The vessel was near Merak Besar Island and manoeuvring towards Pier VI at Merak Port.

The response involved joint teams from the port, the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), the police and other relevant agencies. ASDP thanked the teams and other parties for moving quickly to assist with the evacuation of passengers and crew and manage the incident at the scene.

“We appreciate the swift response, coordination and co-operation of all the joint teams and relevant agencies in the evacuation and response. The combined efforts of all parties have been crucial in ensuring the safety of passengers and crew. We are grateful for their dedication and efforts, and will continue to coordinate until the response is complete,” Heru added.

ASDP said the cause of the fire was still being investigated by the authorities. The company will follow the examination process within the remit of each agency and provide updates based on information verified at the scene.

To support the continued operation of the Merak–Bakauheni ferry service, ASDP has adjusted operations. Services are currently being redirected through Express Pier 2. Passengers are advised to follow instructions from staff at the scene and check for the latest information on port operations. ASDP is monitoring the situation and co-ordinating with relevant parties to keep services running while prioritising passenger safety.

Passengers seeking further information about the incident response or Merak–Bakauheni ferry services can contact the ASDP Contact Centre on 191 for accurate, verified information.

Heru said the company was committed to prioritising safety in every aspect of ferry operations, including emergencies. The incident response will continue in coordination with all relevant parties until it is complete, with safety, accurate information and passengers’ interests at the forefront.

“ASDP is committed to prioritising safety and security in every ferry service. We will ensure that every step in the response is taken carefully, in a measured manner and in accordance with applicable procedures. This commitment underpins our efforts to provide the best possible response for all our customers,” Heru concluded.