The national meeting of the Indonesia Shipping Agencies’ Association (Rakernas ISAA 2024) underscored the crucial role of shipping agents in enhancing connectivity and logistics efficiency across Indonesia.
The meeting, titled “Synergy for Improving Solid and Professional Shipping Agent Business,” was held in Bandung on October 24, 2024, and was officially opened by the Directorate General of Sea Transportation.
In his opening speech, Dr. Hartanto, M.H., M.Mar.E, the Director of Sea Traffic and Transportation, praised initiatives supporting the shipping agency sector, emphasizing their vital role in strengthening connectivity for Indonesia, an archipelagic state with over 17,000 islands. He urged shipping agencies to enhance their contributions to creating logistics efficiency in the country.
“I am honored to welcome you to this year’s ISAA meeting. As the Director of Sea Traffic and Transportation, I am eager to address the challenges we face in building connectivity and improving logistics efficiency in Indonesia,” he stated.
Dr. Hartanto highlighted that shipping agency businesses are essential for ensuring the smooth flow of goods and passengers, both nationally and internationally. He stressed the need for ISAA member companies to continually enhance their competencies to support the maritime and logistics sectors.
The Director reaffirmed the Ministry of Transportation’s commitment to fostering the development of shipping agency businesses in Indonesia, emphasizing the importance of synergy and collaboration among stakeholders. “As of now, there have been 1,855 Shipping Agency Company Business Licenses (SIUPKK) issued by the Ministry of Transportation,” he noted.
However, he reminded ISAA member companies to operate professionally and in compliance with applicable regulations. “Recently, we temporarily froze thousands of shipping company business licenses (SIUPAL) due to inactivity. If there are no objections by November 2024, we will revoke those SIUPAL permits,” he added.
During the meeting, ISAA General Chairperson Aris Hartoyo expressed gratitude to all parties involved in the success of the 2024 ISAA National Working Meeting. “This meeting aims to evaluate ongoing work programs and prepare for future initiatives,” he explained.
Aris revealed that the majority of the 1,855 SIUPKKs issued by the Directorate General of Sea Transportation are held by ISAA members, who serve as general agents or port agents. “That’s why we are working towards establishing ISAA representation in all Indonesian ports. We will also be launching a website and a training institution in celebration of our anniversary,” he announced. Aris acknowledged ISAA’s commitment to coordinating with various stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, to enhance the shipping agency sector’s effectiveness.
