Proposed Johor–Batam RoRo ferry aims to strengthen trade, tourism, and regional connectivity.

Indonesia has proposed a roll-on roll-off (RoRo) ferry service connecting Johor and Batam, a move expected to enhance trade, tourism, and cross-border ties between Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore.

Strengthening Regional Links

The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru has put forward a proposal to establish a RoRo ferry route from Tanjung Belungkor, Johor, to Bintang 99 Port in Batam. Consul-General Sigit S. Widiyanto highlighted that such a service would provide a direct maritime link for vehicles and goods, significantly improving mobility across the Johor–Singapore–Riau Islands region.

Economic and Tourism Opportunities

According to Sigit, the RoRo service would not only facilitate trade but also spur tourism growth by creating smoother travel routes. The connectivity is expected to strengthen people-to-people ties and stimulate local economies on both sides of the Strait. “If this RoRo service can be realised, the Johor–Singapore–Riau Islands region will become more interconnected, spurring regional economic growth and benefiting communities on both sides,” he told Bernama.

Expanding Maritime Links

The proposal also extends beyond Johor–Batam. Discussions are ongoing for a Melaka–Dumai RoRo service, which would open an additional Malaysia–Indonesia maritime link. This initiative reflects growing momentum to expand regional transport infrastructure and diversify cross-border gateways for goods and people.

Complementing the JIWA Programme

Sigit noted that the RoRo initiative would complement the Jiran Istimewa (JIWA) programme, a border treatment initiative offering travel privileges for residents of Johor, Melaka, and the Riau Islands. So far, 134 tourism industry players from these regions have joined JIWA to promote cross-border tourism and strengthen cooperation.

Serving Indonesian Communities Abroad

The proposal also considers the large Indonesian population living under KJRI Johor Bahru’s jurisdiction. More than 130,000 Indonesians currently reside in Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Pahang, including about 100,000 in Johor alone. A comprehensive database of Indonesian workers, schoolchildren, and even prison inmates has been developed this year to ensure better community support and representation.

Momentum for Indonesia–Malaysia Ties

With bilateral ties between Indonesia and Malaysia, particularly Johor and the Riau Islands, continuing to deepen, Sigit emphasized the need to channel this momentum into concrete initiatives. The proposed RoRo ferry reflects this push, aligning with wider efforts to create stronger economic and cultural connections across Southeast Asia’s busiest border regions.

The proposed Johor–Batam RoRo ferry marks a significant step in strengthening regional connectivity, offering new opportunities for trade, tourism, and community ties. If realized, it would enhance cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia while also benefiting Singapore, reinforcing the strategic importance of maritime links in driving Southeast Asia’s shared growth.

Sources: Malay Mail (2025) , Bernama (2025)

Keywords: Johor Batam Ferry, RoRo Service, Cross Border Connectivity, JIWA Programme, Regional Trade, Indonesia Malaysia