ASDP starts construction of second berth at Tanjung Kalian Port in Bangka Belitung

By Romel S. Gurky

State ferry service PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has begun construction of a second berth and capacity expansion works at Tanjung Kalian Port in West Bangka Regency, a project aimed at increasing ferry capacity and improving connectivity between Bangka Belitung and Sumatra.

The project was marked by a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Bangka Belitung Governor Hidayat Arsani and ASDP President Director Heri Widodo on Monday.

Hidayat said Tanjung Kalian serves as a key gateway for the movement of passengers, goods and services between Bangka Island, Sumatra and other parts of Indonesia. He said the additional berth is expected to increase ferry service capacity, reduce vehicle queues and improve the flow of logistics.

According to the governor, improved connectivity could support investment, trade and economic activity in the province.

ASDP's Heri Widodo said ports are critical nodes in Indonesia's transportation and logistics network, particularly for an archipelagic country. He said the company aims to enhance ferry services and support the movement of people and goods between regions.

The new berth is targeted for completion before the 2027 Eid holiday period. Once operational, it is expected to improve ferry connectivity between Bangka Belitung and South Sumatra.

Heri added that infrastructure development on both sides of the crossing route is needed to maximize the benefits of the project. ASDP and the Bangka Belitung provincial government plan to coordinate with the South Sumatra provincial government regarding improvements at Tanjung Siapi-api Port.

Editing by Alexander Ginting