Container terminal operator PT Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok (PTP Nonpetikemas) has launched its first drop tank service for liquid bulk cargo handling at Pulau Baai Port in Bengkulu, marking an expansion of the company’s operational efficiency program for palm oil derivative shipments.
The inaugural operation involved the loading of Palm Fatty Acid Distillate (PFAD) onto the MT SILKROAD 06 vessel for shipment to Jakarta, the company said. The activity was carried out with PT Olein Sawit Lestari acting as shipper.
The vessel berthed at Pulau Baai Port on May 7, with loading operations continuing through May 11.
The drop tank system functions as an intermediate storage and transit facility for cargo transferred from trucks before being pumped onto vessels. The method is designed to accelerate loading activities and improve operational control compared with conventional handling methods.
PTP Nonpetikemas President Director Indra Hidayat Sani said the initiative forms part of the company’s broader strategy to improve port service efficiency and strengthen logistics connectivity.
“This innovation is intended to create a more effective, efficient and integrated liquid bulk handling process,” Indra said in a statement. “After being implemented at Pangkal Balam Port, the system is now being introduced in Bengkulu to support smoother logistics flows and improve port competitiveness.”
Bengkulu Branch Manager Mochammad Choiron Yusuf said the implementation represented an operational milestone for the port, particularly in handling liquid bulk cargo more efficiently.
“With the support of pumps and an integrated distribution system, the PFAD loading process can be completed more quickly while maintaining safety and environmental standards,” Choiron said.
The company said the new system allows truck unloading and cargo transfer to take place simultaneously before pumping cargo onto ships, reducing turnaround times and improving productivity.
PTP Nonpetikemas added that the closed and controlled transfer system also supports health, safety, security and environmental (HSSE) standards by minimizing the risk of spills and maintaining port cleanliness.
The company expects growing shipments of palm oil derivative products from Bengkulu to drive further operational upgrades at Pulau Baai Port as it seeks to develop a more modern and competitive logistics hub.