The management was currently preparing to re-sell tickets for passengers in accordance with the protocols set by the Task Force, Sodikin noted in a statement here on Wednesday.
"In accordance with the circulars we have received, the management will prepare the fleet of ships to transport passengers in accordance with the criteria determined by the Task Force, with destinations to ports in Jakarta, Surabaya, and Makassar," he noted.
The management also enforces provisions that passengers must bring health certificates from health officers or local maritime and fisheries offices, stating that they were not infected with COVID-19.
In addition, the management ensures that during operational activities, health protocols to contain the spread of coronavirus aboard ships will continue to be applied and will limit interaction between the ships' officers and passengers and among the passengers.
"Hence, continue to apply physical distancing procedures during the trip," he stated.
A similar sentiment was also echoed by Indonesia's shipping company Pelni’s Corporate Secretariat Chief Yahya Kuncoro, who affirmed that Pelni had established communication with port managers and authorities at the ports to ensure that application of health protocols on COVID-19 can be further monitored during operational activities.
In the meantime, during a virtual meeting with the House of Representatives (DPR) on Wednesday, May 6, Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi stated that all modes of transportation -- air, sea, train, and buses -- were permitted to operate again from May 7, 2020, though in compliance with the health protocol. Related news: Pelni stops ticket sales for passenger ships until June 8
Related news: Residents to depart from earthquake-hit area aboard Pelni ship
Translator: Yuniati J Naim, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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