The return flow of the Christmas and New Year (Nataru) holiday season has begun to intensify along the Sumatra–Java ferry route. Passenger and vehicle movements from Sumatra to Java are showing a noticeable increase, particularly for buses and freight trucks, indicating the gradual return of travelers and the resumption of logistics activities after the year-end holidays.
According to data from PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero), vehicle crossings from Bakauheni Port in Lampung to Merak Port in Banten have continued to rise in recent days. The increase has been most evident in commercial vehicles, especially trucks transporting goods, followed by intercity buses carrying returning passengers.
ASDP President Director Heru Widodo stated that several days after Christmas, thousands of vehicles had crossed from Sumatra to Java. Freight trucks accounted for the largest share of crossings, reflecting the strong demand for logistics distribution following the holiday break. Meanwhile, the growing number of buses indicates that many people are returning to their workplaces or places of residence after spending the holidays in Sumatra.
Freight Trucks and Buses Dominate Ferry Traffic
Compared to the same period last year, the number of trucks crossing the strait has recorded a significant increase. This trend highlights the recovery and continuity of economic activity, particularly in the transportation and distribution sectors. The rise in bus traffic also demonstrates increased public mobility during the post-holiday period.
Despite the higher volume of vehicles, ASDP confirmed that ferry operations remain under control. Ferry schedules have been adjusted to accommodate increased demand, and port personnel are on standby around the clock to ensure smooth loading and unloading processes at both ports.
Factors Driving the Increase in Return Traffic
Several factors have contributed to the rise in return traffic during the Nataru period. One key factor is the implementation of work-from-anywhere (WFA) policies by various institutions and companies, which allow employees greater flexibility in managing their return travel schedules.
In addition, many travelers choose to return earlier to avoid peak congestion closer to New Year’s Eve. This has helped distribute the return flow more evenly, preventing extreme crowding on a single day and improving overall traffic management at ferry terminals.
Operational Readiness and Public Advisory
ASDP has emphasized its readiness to handle the increased traffic by ensuring sufficient ferry availability, maintaining port facilities, and optimizing digital ticketing services. Passengers are encouraged to purchase ferry tickets online through the Ferizy application and to arrive at the port according to their scheduled departure times.
Travelers are also advised to prioritize safety by ensuring their vehicles are in good condition before boarding and by following instructions from port authorities. Compliance with safety regulations is essential to maintaining a smooth and secure return flow during the busy holiday season.
Return Flow Expected to Continue
ASDP projects that the return flow of vehicles and passengers will continue until closer to the New Year celebrations. However, with proper traffic management, vessel scheduling, and coordination between relevant authorities, congestion at the ports is expected to remain manageable.
The increase in bus and truck crossings from Sumatra to Java during the Nataru return period reflects not only heightened public mobility but also the steady recovery of economic and transportation activities as Indonesia transitions into the new year.
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