New ferry infrastructure in the Riau Islands aims to support rising passenger and vehicle traffic, strengthen logistics networks, and stimulate regional economic growth
PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) has begun expanding Tanjung Uban Port in Bintan Regency, Riau Islands, as part of efforts to improve inter-island connectivity and accommodate growing passenger and logistics demand in the archipelagic province.
The state-owned ferry operator held a groundbreaking ceremony on Thursday (June 18, 2026) for the construction of a second pier and the expansion of existing berthing facilities at the port, which serves as a key transportation gateway in the Riau Islands.
The project is expected to enhance ferry services, support regional economic activity and strengthen maritime connectivity across the island province, where sea transportation remains the primary mode of travel.
ASDP President Director Heru Widodo said the development reflects the company’s strategy to improve transportation infrastructure while supporting economic opportunities in remote and island communities.
“Every pier we build is not just physical infrastructure, but also a link to various economic opportunities, tourism development and increased regional competitiveness,” Heru said during the ceremony.
He added that the project aligns with ASDP’s mission of connecting regions and supporting more inclusive economic growth through reliable transportation services.
The event was attended by Riau Islands Governor Ansar Ahmad, regional government officials, transportation authorities, security representatives and ASDP management.
Ansar welcomed the project, saying improved port facilities are crucial for strengthening connectivity in a province where maritime transportation plays a vital role in daily mobility and economic activity.
According to ASDP, the project includes the construction of Pier 2, which will have a length of 119.48 meters and be capable of serving vessels of up to 1,000 gross tonnage (GT). The facility will be equipped with an 80-ton movable bridge to facilitate the loading and unloading of passengers and vehicles.
At the same time, the company is upgrading Pier 1 by reinforcing infrastructure and berthing facilities to accommodate vessels of up to 2,000 GT. The upgraded pier will have a berthing length of 200.90 meters.
Reno Yulianto, General Manager of ASDP’s Batam Branch, said the company is also rehabilitating Pier 1 at Telaga Punggur Port as part of broader efforts to improve ferry services across the region.
“We are targeting completion and optimal operation of all this work by the end of 2026,” Reno said.
He said the infrastructure improvements are intended to enhance safety, comfort and operational efficiency while supporting public mobility, logistics distribution and regional economic activity.
Tanjung Uban Port currently serves three ferry routes, including the busy Tanjung Uban–Telaga Punggur crossing. ASDP operates KMP Tanjung Burang and KMP Baru on the route, providing transportation services for passengers and vehicles traveling between Bintan and Batam.
The need for additional capacity has increased as traffic through the port continues to grow. Between January and May 2026, Tanjung Uban Port handled 301,221 passengers and 131,684 vehicles, according to company data.
ASDP said the expansion is expected to improve service reliability and reduce operational bottlenecks as demand for ferry transportation continues to rise in the region.
“As a reliable ferry operator, we ensure that every stage of development runs smoothly so that its benefits can be felt widely by the community and all stakeholders,” Heru said.
He added that the project would contribute to long-term economic growth and sustainable development across the Riau Islands.