"Ensuring crossing safety is the main priority. I have instructed the KNKT to investigate the cause of the accident and am committed to preventing similar incidents from recurring," he stated on Friday.
Regarding the incident, he ordered a joint team -- comprising the Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), Indonesian Defense Forces (TNI), National Police, Harbor Master, Indonesian Sea and Coast Guard (KPLP), ASDP, and other related agencies -- to continue and accelerate search efforts.
However, Purwagandhi urged all parties to remain patient, emphasizing that the main focus is currently on maximizing efforts to search for and rescue victims.
"We have a critical window of time that must be used effectively for the search and rescue of the victims of KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya. We hope to find more surviving passengers," the minister remarked.
KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya was carrying 53 people with 12 crew members and 22 vehicles.
"As of Thursday, we have found 29 survivors and confirmed six fatalities," he explained.
The minister expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wished a speedy recovery for the survivors.
Regarding unregistered ship passengers, he stated that his team would confirm and re-verify the findings.
"We will verify to make sure, including whether there are any passengers who survived but have not reported it," he noted.
Purwagandhi also lauded the work of all those involved in the search and rescue process. He advised all personnel to continue prioritizing safety while conducting their duties.
"Considering the harsh weather conditions in the Bali Strait, I urge all officers to remain vigilant about safety. Hopefully, the cooperation of the entire joint team will yield the best possible results," he concluded.
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Related news: SAR team to deploy larger vessels in Tunu Pratama Jaya ferry search
Translator: Muhammad Harianto, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Primayanti
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