GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Port Commission has welcomed a proposed new ferry route linking Aceh in Indonesia and Penang, a move aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and enhancing connectivity between the two nations.

PPC chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the initiative could play a key role in enhancing regional relationships, promoting trade, and boosting tourism.

He confirmed that discussions have been held between Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB), the appointed port operator, and the Aceh government to explore the feasibility of the new ferry service.

"These discussions focused on the readiness of Penang Port to receive ferry services from Aceh," he said today.

According to PPC, the initial phase of the proposed route will involve only passenger and cargo ferries, as foreign-registered vehicles require additional approvals from relevant authorities.

The proposed vessels include a 59m-long passenger ferry capable of carrying up to 200 people and a cargo vessel with a 100-tonne capacity.

To support operations, Penang Port has identified appropriate facilities.

Passenger ferries will dock at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) while cargo vessels will operate out of the Butterworth Deep Water Wharves (BDWW) for loading and unloading.

Yeoh, however, said several key factors must be addressed before the route can be launched, including the selection of a qualified ferry operator, determination of the starting point (Aceh or Penang), and the development of a service schedule that meets user needs.

"We express strong support for the initiative, which has the potential to deepen port-to-port relationships, expand tourism, enhance trade and strengthen economic links between Aceh and Penang.

"With full support from PPSB and other stakeholders, PPC is committed to ensuring the successful implementation of this ferry route, in compliance with all relevant legal frameworks and in support of regional economic development," he added.

It was recently reported that Indonesia's Aceh is set to launch a new direct ferry link from Krueng Geukueh Port to Penang, Malaysia.

Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf, widely known as Mualem, said preparations were underway at the port ahead of the planned launch.

By: Audrey Dermawan