Container terminal operator IPC Terminal Petikemas (IPC TPK), a subsidiary of Pelindo Terminal Petikemas, is enhancing the distribution of cargo to the National Capital of Indonesia (IKN) by inaugurating its first sailing from Terminal 009 in the Tanjung Priok Area 1 to Balikpapan and Samarinda.
The inaugural voyage, operated by Pelayaran Indo Container Line aboard the MV Icon Efesus 17, docked at IPC TPK’s Terminal 009 on Saturday, February 8, 2025. This marks the third new service route introduced by IPC TPK in early 2025.
“This service plays a vital role in strengthening Indonesia’s logistics sector in East Kalimantan and serves as an alternative shipping route for transporting goods from Jakarta to the Capital City IKN and Samarinda,” said Pramestie Wulandary, Corporate Secretary & External Relations of IPC TPK.
The new route is designed to contribute to a more efficient logistics ecosystem, supporting the government’s efforts to successfully develop IKN as a modern, sustainable capital. Additionally, the service provides a crucial solution to meet the growing consumption needs of communities in the Balikpapan and Samarinda regions.
On the operational front, IPC TPK is committed to continuous improvement, enhancing both soft and hard infrastructure to boost loading and unloading productivity. These operational optimizations not only ensure more efficient services but also create opportunities for increased container traffic. As a result, IPC TPK achieved a 23.20% increase in container throughput in January 2025, compared to the same period last year.
According to data from the Balikpapan City BPS, the value of non-oil and gas imports reached USD 160.94 million in September 2024, marking a 5.27% increase over the previous period. This highlights the immense trade potential of the East Kalimantan region.
The MV Icon Efesus 17, with a length of 98 meters and a beam of 16 meters, will operate the Jakarta-Balikpapan-Samarinda route following its docking at IPC TPK’s Terminal 009. The vessel is scheduled to dock weekly, providing consistent and reliable service.
“We hope that this new service will strengthen our partnership with Icon and open up more opportunities to expand trade connectivity. This collaboration will accelerate the distribution of goods and support the growing demand from service users sending goods to East Kalimantan and the surrounding areas,” said Pramestie Wulandary.