Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. State-owned ferry operator PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has confirmed that it is ready to expand international ferry services from Batam to Johor Bahru, Malaysia, as part of efforts to enhance connectivity and boost national economic growth.

"We are prepared, and the vessels are ready. However, since this involves two countries, several matters need to be finalized with the Malaysian authorities," said ASDP President Director Heru Widodo during a press conference on Monday evening (17/3/2025).

ASDP is currently in talks with the Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, and Batam Development Authority to expedite the necessary permits for this international route.

"This is a Government-to-Government collaboration, not just a business-to-business matter. It involves immigration, customs, and narcotics agencies," Heru explained, emphasizing the need for thorough planning.

The Batam-Johor Bahru route is expected to serve both logistics and tourism needs, with two ferries planned to operate the round-trip service. ASDP aims to launch the route within the year, pending final approvals, as reported by antaranews.com.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)