Indonesia, with its vast archipelago, faces unique challenges in connecting remote areas that are often inaccessible by land or air. Recognizing the pivotal role of pioneer ships in overcoming these challenges, the Ministry of Transportation (Kemenhub) unveils an ambitious plan to open 107 pioneer ship routes throughout 2024.
Captain Antoni, Director General of Sea Transportation, emphasizes the crucial role of sea transportation through pioneer ships, highlighting its significance as a backbone in Indonesia’s transportation connectivity. The focus is on continually enhancing this service to bring maximum benefits to communities, particularly in the 3T regions.
“In the current year, the Directorate General of Sea Transportation is organizing sea transportation through 107 pioneer ship routes, catering to 43 homeports spread across 22 provinces in Indonesia, and servicing more than 496 stopping ports,” he declares in an official statement released on Sunday (January 28, 2023).
Director of Traffic and Sea Transportation, Hendri Ginting, reveals the positive evaluation results of 116 ships owned by the Directorate General of Sea Transportation. Out of these, 99 ships are deemed seaworthy and ready for operation, while only 1 ship, the KM Sabuk Nusantara 74, is still in the final stages of construction.
“This represents a significant stride in ensuring that the pioneer ship fleet stands ready to serve communities with optimal performance,” Ginting remarks.
In a strategic move towards efficiency, the network of pioneer ship routes witnesses a slight adjustment – from 117 routes in 2023 to 107 routes in 2024. The selection process factors in the seaworthiness of pioneer ships, including 100 state-owned vessels and 7 ships owned by BPSDM Transportation.
This adjustment carefully considers overlapping route networks and the passenger/cargo occupancy rate at stopping ports. Despite the route network’s streamlining, assurance is given that each proposed stopping port by local governments continues to be served by pioneer ships. Consequently, in 2024, all pioneer sea transportation routes will be serviced using passenger-type ships.
“This initiative aims to provide a more comfortable and efficient travel experience for people throughout Indonesia,” notes Ginting.
The impact of pioneer ships extends beyond mere transportation, acting as catalysts for local economic growth through trade, tourism, and other sectors. Pioneer sea transportation not only physically connects regions but also fosters social connectivity among communities, reinforcing relationships between regions and fostering increased cooperation at the local level.
As Indonesia navigates its way towards improved connectivity, the opening of these pioneer ship routes signifies a concerted effort to bridge gaps and foster inclusivity across the nation’s diverse landscape. This ambitious plan is poised to leave a lasting impact, not just in transportation but in empowering communities and fostering economic vibrancy in remote areas.
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