Ambon (ANTARA) - State-owned passenger ferry operator PT ASDP has launched the new Dobo–Marlasi ferry route in the Aru Islands District, Maluku, aimed at strengthening connectivity in 3T areas—underdeveloped, frontier, and outermost regions.

Syamsuddin Tanassy, General Manager of ASDP Ambon, announced that the inaugural service, operated by KMP Lobster, has begun running on a regular daily schedule.

The route operates once per day, with a journey time of approximately six hours.

Departures from Dobo to Marlasi are scheduled from 09:00 to 15:30 Eastern Indonesia Time (WIT), while the return trip from Marlasi to Dobo runs from 16:30 to 23:00 WIT.

Syamsuddin emphasized that the new route will deliver dual benefits to local communities—enhancing the distribution of goods and improving mobility, while also supporting tourism development.

“Reliable transportation drives a more dynamic economy and accelerates the recognition of regional potential,” he said.

ASDP President Director Heru Widodo added that the launch reflects the company’s commitment to expanding ferry access across the archipelago.

“We aim to ensure our services reach not only major cities but also remote areas that have long been difficult to access,” he stated.

The Dobo–Marlasi route is also expected to encourage the utilization of local resources. The region is rich in marine products and food commodities, and its scenic coastal landscapes hold strong potential for tourism.

ASDP views the opening of this route as a first step toward expanding the ferry network in eastern Indonesia. “Moving forward, ASDP will continue to introduce service innovations to support equitable development from west to east,” Heru added.

Regarding fares, ASDP has set the adult passenger ticket at 63,000 rupiahs, while infant tickets are priced at 7,800 rupiahs. Vehicle rates range from 87,000 rupiahs to 5,423,000 rupiahs depending on category and type.


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Translator: Primayanti
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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