KMP Batumandi Sinks After Fire Is Extinguished; Salvage Operation Planned

The wreck of the KMP Batumandi, which caught fire and then sank in the approach channel to Merak Port, is to be raised in a salvage operation.

“ASDP will coordinate with the relevant authorities and stakeholders to prepare for the vessel’s recovery through a salvage operation,” said Windy Andale, corporate secretary of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry, on Thursday (22 October 2026).

The KMP Batumandi sank after firefighting operations ended at around 8.54pm on Wednesday (21 October). The weight added during the operation caused the vessel to list before sinking.

After the vessel sank, the company installed a buoy to mark the wreck’s location and guide other vessels for safety.

“Safety measures will include installing a buoy to mark the vessel’s location, providing guidance for passing vessels and minimising potential risks in the area,” she said.

The recovery and safety measures around the sunken vessel are expected to be carried out soon. ASDP is coordinating with relevant parties on the salvage operation.

“The operation will take into account safety and security considerations, as well as sea conditions, to ensure that the response is planned and carried out in accordance with the applicable procedures,” she said.