ASDP Indonesia Ferry partners with government agencies to expedite Batam-Johor Bahru ferry service, enhancing regional connectivity.

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) is set to expand its international ferry services by launching the Batam-Johor Bahru route, aiming to boost regional connectivity and economic growth. The strategic project, part of Indonesia’s National Strategic Program (PSN), is currently undergoing regulatory preparations, with coordination between Indonesian and Malaysian authorities. Two ferries will be deployed for the route, catering to both logistics and tourism demands.

ASDP to Expand Maritime Network with Batam-Johor Bahru Ferry Route

PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has officially announced its plan to launch a new ferry route connecting Batam and Johor Bahru, marking a significant step toward strengthening regional transport and trade relations between Indonesia and Malaysia. This project aligns with the National Strategic Program (PSN), which focuses on boosting Indonesia’s maritime economy and enhancing cross-border connectivity.

In a strategic meeting in Batam, ASDP coordinated with the Presidential Staff Office (KSP), the Ministry of Transportation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance, and BP Batam to expedite the licensing and regulatory approvals for the ferry route. According to Heru Widodo, President Director of ASDP, discussions have also begun with Abu Dhabi Port to explore potential port management partnerships and infrastructure investment.

Regulatory Coordination and Government Support

The planned Batam-Johor Bahru ferry service is a Government-to-Government (G2G) project, requiring close collaboration between Indonesian and Malaysian authorities. ASDP’s key challenges include obtaining immigration, customs, and security clearances, ensuring a seamless cross-border travel experience for passengers and businesses.

“Although ASDP is fully prepared with vessels and logistics, launching an international route requires coordination at multiple levels. We are actively working with both Indonesian and Malaysian stakeholders to ensure smooth implementation,” said Heru Widodo in a recent press briefing.

Additionally, KSP Chief of Staff, General (Ret.) AM Putranto, expressed full government support, emphasizing ASDP’s vital role in Indonesia’s maritime expansion.

“The government is committed to supporting ASDP in strengthening Indonesia’s ferry network. We will ensure the necessary inter-ministerial coordination to accelerate the execution of this project,” Putranto stated.

Economic and Tourism Impact of the Ferry Route

The Batam-Johor Bahru ferry route is expected to drive significant economic benefits, particularly in the trade, tourism, and logistics sectors. Batam, a major business hub and special economic zone, already serves as a gateway to Singapore and Malaysia. The new ferry service will further increase cargo transport efficiency and boost tourism exchanges between Indonesia and Malaysia.

“This expansion is crucial not only for logistics but also for tourism. We aim to facilitate smoother passenger movements and encourage economic activities between Batam and Johor Bahru,” Heru Widodo added.

To support the project, ASDP is also accelerating the development of Bakauheni Harbour City (BHC), a maritime hub designed to integrate ferry terminals with tourism and commercial facilities.

Operational Plans: Two Ferries to Serve the Route

ASDP has confirmed the deployment of two ferries for the Batam-Johor Bahru route, ensuring regular daily crossings. The company is also implementing digital services to enhance ticketing, passenger management, and operational efficiency.

“We are optimizing our digital infrastructure to ensure seamless ticketing, schedule tracking, and customer service,” Heru Widodo explained.

ASDP is currently finalizing cross-border security protocols, in coordination with immigration, customs, and national security agencies. The ferry route is expected to launch in late 2025, depending on regulatory approvals and infrastructure readiness.

The Batam-Johor Bahru ferry service marks a new era for Indonesia’s maritime transport, improving regional integration, boosting economic activities, and enhancing travel convenience between Indonesia and Malaysia. With support from both governments, ASDP is confident that this expansion will significantly benefit businesses, travelers, and the overall economy.

Local authorities and business stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to create new job opportunities, increase trade efficiency, and strengthen Indonesia’s maritime infrastructure.

Sources: Gokepri (2025), Batam Pos (2025), Liputan6 (2025)

Keywords: ASDP Batam Johor, Batam Johor Transport, Ferry Route Expansion, ASEAN Maritime Network, Economic Growth Indonesia, Government Transport Policy, Ferry Connectivity, Batam Malaysia Transport, ASDP Strategic Plan, Batam International Ferry