PT Pelayaran Nasional Indonesia (Persero), commonly known as Pelni, announced that it transported 153,433 passengers during the Eid al-Fitr return period from March 23 to March 29, 2026. The peak day for passenger numbers was March 28, when 25,635 travelers were recorded.
In her statements, Pelni's General Director, Tri Andayani, expressed optimism about an increase in passenger numbers until the end of the return period scheduled for April 6, 2026. She confirmed that the company is prepared to handle the expected peak in passenger traffic on April 2, ensuring all necessary services are available to guarantee traveler comfort.
Event Details
During the Eid al-Fitr return period from March 23 to April 6, 2026, Pelni recorded ticket sales totaling 268,746 tickets by March 29. Overall, during the Eid al-Fitr period from March 6 to April 6, 2026, ticket sales reached 585,744 tickets, representing 91.4% of the forecast of 641,025 tickets.
The company emphasized that passenger safety and comfort are its top priorities, implementing strict safety standards and providing excellent services. It also highlighted the importance of booking tickets through official channels to avoid issues related to ticket shortages or purchasing unofficial tickets.
Background & Context
Pelni is one of the leading maritime transport companies in Indonesia, playing a vital role in facilitating passenger movement between various islands. In recent years, the company has seen a significant increase in passenger numbers, especially during religious occasions like Eid al-Fitr, when many Indonesians travel to their hometowns to celebrate with their families.
Historically, Indonesia has relied heavily on maritime transport due to its vast distribution of islands. With the growing population and rising demand for transport services, the government has enhanced maritime transport infrastructure, contributing to improved service quality.
Impact & Consequences
The increase in travelers via Pelni is an indicator of the recovery of the maritime transport sector in Indonesia, especially following the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. This increase also reflects citizens' desire to return to normal life and resume social activities after periods of restrictions.
On the other hand, this surge in passenger traffic may lead to improvements in the local economy, as travel boosts domestic tourism and increases demand for local services. Additionally, offering discounts on ticket prices, such as the recent 30% discount, has contributed to attracting more travelers.
Regional Significance
Although this news pertains to Indonesia, there are lessons that Arab countries can learn. An increase in maritime transport can enhance domestic tourism and assist in developing transport infrastructure. Arab nations with long coastlines can benefit from improving maritime transport services to boost trade and tourism.
In conclusion, Pelni's experience serves as a model for managing transport traffic during busy periods, highlighting the importance of good planning and adherence to safety standards to ensure a comfortable and safe travel experience.