JAKARTA - PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) reminds all crossing service users, especially on the main Sumatra-Java-Bali crossing, to increase vigilance and make safety a top priority in every trip.
ASDP President Director Heru Widodo said this appeal was conveyed following the operational dynamics that occurred at Merak Port on Friday, January 23, 2026, due to the influence of less friendly weather conditions.
"This situation is an important reminder that natural factors play a significant role in crossing operations, especially on vital routes that connect national mobility centers," he said in an official statement, Monday, January 26.
Based on the forecast of the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) for the period of January 25 to 31, 2026, continued Heru, most of Indonesia is still at the peak of the rainy season which is influenced by the strengthening of the Asian Monsoon and the activity of tropical disturbances in the southern region of Indonesia.
Heru said this condition has the potential to increase the intensity of rain, wind speed, and wave height in a number of strategic waters. In addition, BMKG also predicts that wind speeds in the Sunda Strait, Java Sea, and Bali Strait waters range from 14-16 knots, with wind gusts (gusts) that can reach 25-30 knots.
Meanwhile, the significant wave height is estimated to be in the range of 1.2 to 1.6 meters, with the potential to increase fluctuately following daily atmospheric dynamics.
"In these conditions, a number of crossing vessels operating in the Sunda Strait are reported to have experienced navigation challenges due to waves and strong winds," he said.
For example, said Heru, the events experienced by KMP Rishel belonging to PT Surya Timur Lines and KMP Dorothy belonging to Damai Lintas Bahari on Friday, January 23, the events show that extreme weather can have an impact on shipping stability and cargo security.
"So vigilance and compliance with safety standards are crucial for all operators and service users," he said.
Therefore, Heru said the BMKG forecast became the main basis for every operational crossing policy. Safety is the absolute priority.
"ASDP will not force operations if the weather conditions are risky. We urge the public to manage travel time wisely, monitor the latest weather information, and not force themselves to cross when conditions are not safe," he said.
As part of the anticipatory steps, ASDP adjusts the operational pattern dynamically through intensive coordination with KSOP and BPTD, including adjusting schedules to delays in departure if necessary.
On the land side, traffic flow arrangements around the port, optimization of parking lots, and vehicle density control continue to be strengthened to maintain safety and smooth service.
Meanwhile, ASDP Corporate Secretary, Windy Andale, said that protection for service users was also carried out through service flexibility.
"ASDP implements a 25 percent refund policy and a 10 percent reschedule policy through Ferizy so that travel can be adjusted to weather conditions. The safety and comfort of service users remain a priority," he explained.
ASDP, continued Windy, also invites the public to make weather information the main reference in planning a trip. With preparedness and synergy across stakeholders, ASDP is committed to maintaining safe, reliable, and sustainable crossing services in the midst of extreme weather challenges.
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