Lebaran Exodus 2026: Pelni Offers 30 Per Cent Discount on Ship Tickets from Kalimantan to Central Java

PT Pelni Semarang branch head Yuniati Fatimah disclosed that the percentage of homeward-bound travellers via sea routes from Kalimantan to Central Java is not expected to increase significantly during this year’s Lebaran holiday. Pelni has implemented a 30 per cent discount on ship fares.

“Compared to 2025, our projection does not differ substantially, it is not significant, perhaps around a 3 per cent increase,” Yuniati stated when asked about potential growth in passenger numbers docking at Tanjung Emas Port in Semarang on Wednesday, 11 March 2026.

She explained that the Lebaran transport period has been set for one month, from 6 March to 6 April 2026. “During the period from 6 March until today, approximately 3,300 passengers have disembarked at Tanjung Emas Port in Semarang, and 210 passengers have embarked,” she said.

PT Pelni Semarang has prepared five vessels to facilitate travel during the Lebaran transport period: KM Lawit, Kelimutu, Awu, Leuser, and Bukit Raya. These five ships operate on round-trip routes between Semarang-Sampit, Semarang-Kumai, and Semarang-Pontianak.

According to Yuniati, compared to regular days, the number of passengers disembarking at Tanjung Emas Port in Semarang has increased since 6 March 2026. She cited the Kumai-Semarang route as an example, where on average approximately 400-500 passengers disembark per journey.

Since 6 March 2026, however, disembarking passenger numbers have ranged between 900 and 1,200. “The peak of the exodus is expected on 18 March 2026,” Yuniati stated.

She assured that during the Lebaran transport period, all PT Pelni vessels are in excellent condition to ensure passenger safety. “We have prioritised three pillars: safety first, zero accidents, and excellent service. To achieve this, safety equipment has been fully equipped, and ramp checks have been conducted. We have also increased passenger capacity on the vessels,” Yuniati explained.

Furthermore, PT Pelni is also providing a 30 per cent ticket discount for the economy class. “The 30 per cent discount stimulus began from 11 February. However, it applies to departures from 11 March until 5 April,” Yuniati said.

“The government hopes that with this stimulus, it will assist citizens wishing to travel using sea transportation. Subsequently, with the remaining money, they can boost economic growth in their respective home regions,” Yuniati added.

According to Yuniati, PT Pelni is also offering a free exodus programme for the Kumai-Semarang route. She said 400 seats have been allocated for this programme and have been fully booked. Yuniati disclosed that the vessel is scheduled to depart from Kumai towards Semarang on 15 March 2026.