Will the new RORO ferry boost Indonesia-Malaysia trade?

Image generated with Ai

The Indonesian government is taking significant strides towards bolstering trade relations with Malaysia. A key initiative in this direction is the proposed establishment of a roll-on roll-off (RORO) ferry service. This service, planned between Batam Island in Riau and Tanjung Belungkor in Kota Tinggi, is anticipated to amplify imports and exports between Johor and Indonesia.

Sigit Suryantoro Widiyanto, the Indonesian consul-general, highlighted that the RORO ferry service aims to transport commercial vehicles. This move is expected to streamline and direct the delivery of goods between the two nations via this route. The proposal for Batam Island’s Batu Ampar Port and Tanjung Belungkor Ferry Terminal service has been submitted to the Johor government for evaluation.

The introduction of the RORO ferry service is seen as a game-changer for the transportation of a broader variety of imported and exported goods between Indonesia and Malaysia. This service will allow for the direct transportation of commercial vehicles, facilitating a more efficient loading and unloading process.

In a meeting with local media representatives and members of the Johor Media Club, Sigit Suryantoro provided insights into the proposed service. He emphasized the benefits this service would offer, particularly to Indonesian and Malaysian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), which have previously faced limitations in shipping goods via commercial passenger ferries.

Sigit Suryantoro elaborated on the capacity of the RORO ferry service, estimating the transportation of up to 70 commercial vehicles per trip. This increase in capacity is projected to result in significant cost and time savings for businesses.

The successful implementation of the RORO ferry service between Batam Island and Tanjung Belungkor would require a concerted effort and prioritization by both Indonesia and Malaysia. This service is not just a logistical solution; it is poised to be a catalyst for enhanced trade relations. Additionally, it is expected to have a positive impact on tourism, offering new travel options and boosting economic exchanges between the two regions.