Govt launches new Palembang port project to boost logistics in South Sumatra

By Romel S. Gurky

The government has launched the development of a new port in Palembang, South Sumatra, aimed at improving logistics efficiency and supporting economic growth in the resource-rich region.

The project, located in Tanjung Carat, Banyuasin Regency, was officially launched on April 9 by the Ministry of Transportation in collaboration with the South Sumatra provincial government, marking readiness for the construction phase.

Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said the port would play a strategic role in strengthening connectivity and the national logistics system, particularly in southern Sumatra.

“This project holds a strategic position in improving logistics efficiency and enhancing Indonesia’s global economic competitiveness,” he said, noting the province’s strong resource base, including coal, palm oil and rubber.

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Logistics services in the region currently rely on Boom Baru Port, which faces constraints such as limited land capacity and insufficient channel depth for larger vessels, as well as congestion from heavy truck traffic.

The new Palembang port is designed to address these limitations and serve as a modern logistics hub integrated with other transport networks.

The launch follows the transfer of land management rights covering 59.5 hectares from the South Sumatra provincial government to the Ministry of Transportation, with additional areas designated to support the project.

Dudy said the project would require close coordination among stakeholders to ensure timely completion and effective operation, with a focus on safety and integration into the broader transport system.

Other officials attending the launch included Nusron Wahid, Deputy Minister of Investment and Downstreaming Todotua Pasaribu, Presidential Staff Office head Muhammad Qodari, South Sumatra Governor Herman Deru, and Banyuasin Vice Regent Netta Indian.

Editing by Reiner Simanjuntak