KMP Hafamati HF to Serve Three Islands in South Nias from November 5

PULO TELLO, JakartaWeekly.com— PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero), in collaboration with the South Nias Regency Government, will begin operating KMP Hafamati HF on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The pioneer ferry service will connect Pulau Tello, Lasondre, and Saeru, covering a total distance of approximately 30 nautical miles.

South Nias Regent Sokhiatulo Laia said the vessel’s arrival marked a step toward strengthening connectivity across the island region and improving residents’ mobility.

“We appreciate the collaboration between ASDP and the South Nias Regency Government. The arrival of this vessel is significant in facilitating people’s mobility while supporting economic growth and more equitable development across the islands,” he said.

KMP Hafamati HF was launched at Pulau Tello Port on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. The launch ceremony was attended by Sokhiatulo Laia, South Nias Transportation Agency Head Damai Omega Telaumbanua, and representatives of ASDP management.

The ferry service is expected to improve residents’ access to education, healthcare, the distribution of essential goods, and economic activities.

Ellenor Piri, General Manager of ASDP’s Lake Toba Branch, said the operation of KMP Hafamati HF reflected the company’s commitment to providing connectivity for island communities and people in Indonesia’s frontier, outermost, and least developed (3T) regions.

“For island communities, connectivity is a fundamental need. We hope KMP Hafamati HF will serve as a link between islands, create economic opportunities, and improve public access to various services. Its operations will continue to prioritize the 3S principles: Safety, Security, and Service,” Ellenor said.

South Nias Transportation Agency Head Damai Omega Telaumbanua said the local government was committed to supporting the sustainability of the service through coordination with ASDP and all relevant stakeholders.

“We hope this service will operate consistently and provide reliable transportation for communities on islands that have long faced limited access,” he said.

KMP Hafamati HF is a Ro-Ro passenger vessel commanded by Capt. Krisno Samosir. The 60-gross-ton vessel has a capacity of 40 passengers and 10 motorcycles, with a service speed of up to 10 knots.

In 2026, the service is scheduled to operate for five days within each 14-day period. On each operating day, the vessel is scheduled to make four trips: Pulau Tello–Lasondre, Lasondre–Saeru, Saeru–Lasondre, and Lasondre–Pulau Tello.

In 2027, the pioneer ferry service is scheduled to operate throughout the year, with a target of 289 trips on each route.