Johor Bahru:The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia (KJRI) in Johor Bahru has highlighted the necessity of increasing ferry services and flight routes between Johor and Indonesia to bolster tourism. This follows the arrival of 1.5 million tourists from Indonesia to the state last year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sigit S. Widiyanto, the Consul General in Johor Bahru, emphasized that enhancing connectivity is crucial for facilitating mobility between the two regions. He indicated that such measures are also needed to support Johor's health tourism sector, as 79 percent of the 127,000 international patients in the state during the same period were Indonesian citizens.

Sigit expressed support for the expansion of routes, noting that it would significantly increase tourist numbers and benefit both regions. He made these remarks during a press conference following the launch of a new ferry service connecting Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal with Gold Coast Ferry Terminal in Bengkong, Batam.

Furthermore, Sigit elaborated that of the 11 passenger ferry routes between Malaysia and Indonesia, eight operate in Johor. Currently, the air routes from Indonesia to Johor only include Jakarta and Surabaya. He also mentioned Malaysia's contribution to Indonesia's tourism sector, with Malaysians comprising 40 percent of international passengers on the 'Whoosh' high-speed rail service.

On the issue of border security, Sigit stated that the KJRI collaborates closely with Indonesian authorities to combat illegal immigration syndicates, which have been offering services on social media. Preventive measures, including the removal of advertisements for illegal boat syndicates, have been effective in reducing such activities.

Recently, B Ferry, an Indonesian company, launched an international ferry route connecting Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal with Gold Coast Bengkong Ferry Terminal in Batam. Sigit noted that Bengkong is a developing area with various new attractions and that the route would facilitate travel for Johor residents and tourists visiting destinations like Legoland.

B Ferry highlighted that the new route is a significant step in strengthening ties between Johor and Batam, aligning with the Visit Johor Year 2026 initiative. The company hopes the route will enhance the tourism economy, increase tourist arrivals, boost state revenue, and create business and job opportunities for the local community.