Container terminal TPK Koja reached a significant milestone on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, surpassing 1 million TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units) for the second time in its history. This achievement marks the terminal’s highest throughput, following its first milestone of 1 million TEUs in 2017.
Unlike the 2017 milestone, which was partly driven by the transfer of traffic from JICT due to terminal repairs, this year’s success is entirely attributed to TPK Koja’s organic growth and increasing market share.
“We are extremely proud of this accomplishment. It reflects the enhanced productivity driven by effective communication and the strong, cooperative relationship between workers and management. This achievement is a testament to our collective effort,” said Farudi, Chairman of the TPK Koja Workers’ Union (SP), in an interview with Indonesia Shipping Gazette.
As of December 18, 2024, operational data shows TPK Koja’s throughput reached 1,002,042 TEUs, far exceeding the annual target of 949,500 TEUs. Farudi anticipates that the terminal will finish the year with 1,030,000 TEUs. “With just 12 days remaining in 2024, we are confident that we will surpass this new target,” he added.
To commemorate the achievement, the SP TPK Koja hosted a thanksgiving ceremony on December 18, 2024. “This event not only celebrates our throughput milestone but also coincides with our regular monthly coordination meeting between union management and the Workers’ Representative Council,” Farudi explained.
The Power of Dialogue and Cooperation
Farudi emphasized that the success of TPK Koja is rooted in continuous dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders. “While disputes between management and the union are inevitable, they do not obstruct our productivity. The union is dedicated to maintaining a positive and constructive work environment, with social dialogue playing a key role in addressing current and future challenges. We urge all stakeholders to remain committed to this spirit of collaboration,” he said.
The workers at TPK Koja have consistently demonstrated dedication to high productivity and business efficiency, which have been critical to the terminal’s operational and financial success. “We are confident that these achievements, grounded in professionalism, integrity, and safety, will continue to propel us forward into 2024,” Farudi noted.
Despite ongoing disputes, including a legal issue concerning a Collective Labor Agreement (PKB) violation related to workers’ rights, the TPK Koja Workers’ Union expressed gratitude to its loyal customers, who continue to rely on the terminal’s services.
The union also extended special thanks to various labor organizations, including the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the Port Workers Alliance, the All-Indonesia Container Terminal Workers Union Forum, the BUMN Synergy Federation, and the BUMN SP Confederation. Additional recognition was given to the legal and advocacy teams, including Masykur Isnan & Partners Law Firm, Industrial Relations Focus & Co., and Pawallang and Brothers Law Firm, for their continued support.
“We understand these are challenging times for the workers, but through cooperation, trust, and mutual support, we have been able to overcome many obstacles. Together, we will restore harmony in the workplace,” Farudi stated.
Looking Ahead
Farudi stressed that maintaining open and honest communication, especially during periods of dispute, is essential for resolving workplace challenges. “Even when conflicts remain unresolved, well-maintained dialogue reflects our maturity in managing workplace dynamics. It’s crucial for finding fair and constructive solutions for all parties involved,” he emphasized.
As TPK Koja continues to grow and face new challenges, Farudi expressed confidence in the future. “The strength of our collaboration and collective spirit will serve as the foundation for navigating the competitive landscape ahead,” he concluded.