Magnitude 7.6 Earthquake Strikes North Sulawesi and North Maluku, ASDP Ensures Ferry Services Remain Normal

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has assured that ferry crossing services continue to operate normally following the earthquake that struck North Sulawesi and North Maluku on Thursday (2/4/2026). The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency recorded the magnitude 7.6 earthquake at 05:48 WIB. The epicentre was located at sea, 129 kilometres southeast of Bitung, at a depth of 33 kilometres. The quake has the potential to trigger a tsunami and was followed by several aftershocks. ASDP President Director Heru Widodo stated that the company immediately responded to the situation. Focus was directed towards operational readiness in affected areas such as Bitung and Ternate. “We are ensuring that all operational lines move quickly and in a coordinated manner,” Heru said in an official statement on Thursday (2/4/2026). “Readiness of the fleet, personnel, as well as strengthening monitoring of information and coordination with stakeholders are key to ensuring services continue to run safely and under control,” he added. Six vessels serving 11 routes are in good condition. Vessels that are docked or sailing continue to operate. The crew and employees are confirmed to be safe. KMP Ranaka, which serves the Bitung-Tobelo route, continues to operate. This vessel was once about 65 nautical miles from the epicentre but proceeded with its voyage while paying attention to safety aspects. The high-traffic Bitung-Ternate route also continues to run normally. Services are supported by KMP Dalente Woba and KMP Portlink VIII, which operate on schedule to maintain passenger mobility and logistics distribution. “As a precautionary measure against aftershocks, we are implementing a work-from-home policy for non-operational employees. However, operational services continue fully to ensure that the public’s mobility needs are met,” explained Mushar. “In the midst of a disaster situation, the presence of ferry services becomes a connector of hope and life activities. We are committed to keeping inter-regional connectivity intact, while placing safety as the top priority in every service,” Mushar emphasised.