The annual meeting of the ASEAN Ports Association (ASDP) received a proposal from Malaysia for the cooperation in sea passage. This proposal aimed to enhance the connectivity and efficiency of sea trade among ASEAN countries. The proposal was brought to the table at a time when the maritime industry was facing significant challenges globally. The ASDP represents the port authorities of the Southeast Asian region, and this proposal could be a significant step towards strengthening the maritime industry within the ASEAN community. The proposal aims to create a more unified and efficient system of logistics and transport through the sea, which can benefit the region economically. This article will discuss the proposal’s specifics and the potential outcomes of the proposed cooperation.
PT ASDP Batam, a state-owned ferry operator in Batam, Indonesia, has received a proposal from Malaysia for cross-border sea passage cooperation on the Batam-Johor Bahru route. The proposal was made by a representative of Johor Bahru who visited the Roro Telaga Punggur Port on Sunday, April 2, 2023. While the proposal is an excellent business opportunity and will provide ease and comfort for Malaysian tourists who wish to visit Indonesia due to the close distance between Batam and Malaysia, the company is yet to accept the proposal.
According to Marsadik, the General Manager of ASDP Batam, receiving a proposal is not new to the company as cross-border crossing from Indonesia to Malaysia has been carried out previously. However, the company will need to conduct a preliminary study before accepting the proposal. The central management will make the final decision, and the company will wait for its direction.
The proposal’s acceptance requires a central-level study and coordination, mainly regarding the sea transportation sector. Hence, opening a cross-border route is regulated by a separate set of provisions, which the company is currently studying.
The company, as a regional branch of PT ASDP, has no authority to accept or reject the proposal. Its part is only to absorb aspirations and seize the business opportunity from Johor Bahru. The further decision will be made by the central management.
A cross-border agreement between the two countries will help enhance people-to-people connectivity, trade, and tourism between Indonesia and Malaysia. Johor Bahru is a popular destination for Indonesian tourists, and increased interconnectivity between the two countries would economically benefit both nations.
Although cross-border travel is essential, it needs to be regulated and coordinated optimally, taking into account COVID-19 protocols and travel bubbles. This proposal will be an excellent chance for both countries to work together to establish a safe and comfortable cross-border travel system.
In other news, the Ministry of Transportation has allowed the Karimun-Stulang Laut ferry route’s reopening, Batam will welcome the first Singaporean tourist ferry, and the Ministry plans to open cross-border freight transportation between Kupang and Dili.
In conclusion, a proposal for cross-border sea passage cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia has been received by PT ASDP Batam. The company believes that it is a good business opportunity, but a preliminary study is required prior to accepting the proposal. The central management will make the final decision, and the company will wait for its direction. If the proposal is accepted, it will help enhance people-to-people connectivity, trade, and tourism between the two countries.
