KMP Batumandi Sinks After Fire

The passenger motor vessel KMP Batumandi sank after catching fire, which was successfully extinguished on Tuesday, 20 October 2026.

KMP Batumandi sank at 8.54pm on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, about 700 metres from Merak Port in Cilegon, Banten.

“KMP Batumandi was reported to have capsized and sunk in waters near Merak Port,” said Windy Andale, corporate secretary of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, on Wednesday, 21 October.

Markers will be installed around the sunken vessel to prevent ships and fishing boats from entering the area. Vessels sailing near Merak Port will also be contacted and warned to avoid colliding with the wreck.

“Security measures will include installing buoys to mark the vessel’s location, providing guidance to passing ships and minimising potential risks in the area,” she said.

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry plans to raise the sunken KMP Batumandi so that it does not obstruct shipping routes or affect fishermen and tourist boats travelling to Merak Besar and Merak Kecil islands.

“ASDP will coordinate with the relevant authorities and other parties to prepare for the vessel’s recovery through a salvage operation,” she said.