GEORGE TOWN – A long-discussed direct ferry link between Indonesia’s Aceh province and Penang is moving closer to reality, but don’t expect to drive your car onto it just yet.
Passengers and cargo only – for now
According to Penang Port Commission (SPPP) chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, the new route will begin with passenger and cargo services only. Roll-on roll-off (RORO) ferries for vehicles are not part of the initial plan, as foreign-registered vehicles require further approval from Malaysian authorities.
Instead, the proposal involves:
- Passenger ferry: A vessel about 59 metres long with capacity for 200 people.
- Cargo ferry: A 100-tonne capacity ship.
Where will the ferries dock?
Penang Port has already identified facilities to support the route:
- Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) – for passenger arrivals and departures.
- Butterworth Deep Water Wharves (BDWW) – for cargo handling.
This division is meant to ensure smooth traffic flow and minimise congestion at either terminal.
What’s next before launch?
While both Penang Port and the Acehnese government have reached consensus on the broad framework, several key details still need ironing out:
- Selection of qualified ferry operators.
- Deciding the starting route – whether ferries will depart first from Aceh or Penang.
- Crafting a timetable to suit passenger demand and cargo needs.
SPPP said it is committed to working with Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB), the appointed port operator and other stakeholders to ensure the ferry service complies with legal requirements and runs smoothly.
Why does it matter?
Yeoh highlighted that the route could deepen ties between Malaysia and Indonesia by:
- Expanding tourism – offering a direct sea link between Penang and Aceh.
- Boosting trade – providing new opportunities for small businesses and cross-border logistics.
- Strengthening economic and cultural networks across the Straits of Malacca.
The Aceh perspective
On Aug 23, Aceh Governor Muzakir Manaf confirmed that Aceh would launch the new route from Krueng Geukueh Port in Muara Satu to Penang. He described it as a project that would not only improve connectivity but also elevate Aceh’s role as a regional trade and tourism hub.
Bottom line
The Aceh–Penang ferry route is shaping up to be a significant development for both sides of the Straits of Malacca.
While timelines are still unclear and more groundwork is needed before the first ferry sets sail, officials on both ends are optimistic that this initiative will soon transform how people and goods move between Aceh and Penang.