Head of the Ambon Class I Harbormaster Office and Port Authority (KSOP), Mochmamad Abduh, stated that the sampling test was conducted by the Central Marine Inspector team from the Directorate of Shipping and Maritime Affairs of the Directorate General of Sea Transportation, Transportation Ministry.
"Sampling activities include a series of technical examinations of Ro-Ro ships operating at Ambon Port," Abduh noted in a written statement received in Jakarta on Friday.
He remarked that several aspects examined include the structure of ships, machines, navigation equipment, electrical systems, and safety equipment such as lifeboats, life jackets, and light fire extinguishers (APAR).
In addition, Abduh noted that the inspection also included ship documents, ship crew certification, as well as testing the functions of emergency equipment. All aspects are considered to ensure that the ship is seaworthy and meets shipping safety standards.
Abduh stated that the examination was conducted thoroughly on safety, technical, and operational aspects of ship operations in accordance with national and international provisions and was accompanied by a record of improvement recommendations to be followed up by ship operators.
Several ships that were spot-checked include KMP. Terubuk, operating on the Hunimua-Waipirit path (operator of PT. ASDP Indonesia Ferry); KMP. Tatihu, serving the Galala-Namlea path (PD. Panca Karya Operator); and Cantika Lestari 8A Ship, which serves the Slamet Riyadi-Namlea Port (Operator of PT. Dharma Indah).
From the results of the ship's inspection in general, several evaluation records needed to be corrected and fulfilled by the operator within a specified period.
"If the ship does not meet the recommendations of the inspection results from the Marine Inspector, the ship's departure can be postponed by the Harbormaster," he emphasized.
Through this inspection, the government hopes that passenger ships operating, especially at Ambon Port, have met the applicable safety and security standards. This is also an effort to build a culture of safety in the national shipping sector.
"The spot-checks were carried out for three days on July 28-30, 2025," he remarked.
Ambon Port plays an important role as the main gateway and connectivity node in the Maluku and eastern regions of Indonesia. The port is not only vital for the distribution of goods and passengers but also supports fisheries, tourism, and inter-island trade activities.
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Translator: Arie Novarina
Editor: Primayanti
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