Batam’s Pelabuhan Batuampar ushers in a new era of port services by initiating operations of its newly acquired Ship to Shore (STS) Crane from South Korea, aiming to revolutionize container loading and unloading efficiencies.
The crane, which was delivered to Batam in April 2023, successfully commenced its services on 1 September 2023. Prior to this, extensive testing, commissioning, and stakeholder engagement exercises were undertaken to ensure seamless integration.
The introduction of this state-of-the-art 760-ton STS Crane, capable of handling up to 35 container boxes per hour, is expected to drastically reduce dwelling times at the Batu Ampar General Terminal. This marks a significant leap from conventional equipment that could shift only between 4-8 boxes an hour.
BP Batam’s Director, Dendi Gustinandar, accentuated the overarching goal: modernizing the Batu Ampar Port. Under the leadership of Muhammad Rudi, Head of BP Batam, the latest technological solutions are being utilized to augment container unloading services.
Dendi Gustinandar further highlighted that with the STS Crane’s operation, the traditional container loading activities previously handled by external Loading and Unloading Companies will now be managed internally by BP Batam’s personnel.
Consequent to the operational shift, financial and operational administrative processes for container handling are now coordinated directly by BP Batam.
Dendi asserted that all container loading and unloading processes, whether domestic or international, at the Batu Ampar General Terminal, will prioritize using the new Korean-made equipment. Tariffs for these services will adhere to the 2023 Regulation No. 4, effective since 1st September 2023.
For Singaporeans and international travelers, this overhaul symbolizes the ever-growing ties between South-East Asian neighbors and emphasizes Batam’s commitment to promoting efficient trade routes. With quicker turnaround times, trade volumes, tourism, and investments might see a positive surge, potentially bolstering regional economic collaboration.
Pelabuhan Batuampar in Batam has taken a decisive stride towards modernization by launching its new 760-ton Ship to Shore (STS) Crane from South Korea. Designed to manage up to 35 container boxes per hour, this move promises swifter and more efficient port services, positioning Batam as a pivotal trade hub for Singaporeans and international stakeholders.
Source: GoKepri (2023)
