Kuala Lumpur, 3 October 2024 – In a significant step towards boosting regional tourism, Bintan Resorts has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The International Golden Shipping and the operator of Pasir Gudang Port in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The agreement marks the launch of a direct ferry route between Johor Bahru and Bintan Resorts, designed to improve accessibility and enhance the appeal of Bintan as a premier international tourism destination.
This new ferry route is set to reduce travel time for tourists, particularly those from Malaysia and neighboring regions, offering a more convenient and seamless travel experience. The strategic initiative is expected to significantly boost tourism traffic to Bintan, aligning with both Indonesia’s and Malaysia’s tourism growth objectives.
The ceremony was attended by several high-ranking officials, including Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, and Sigit Suryantoro Widiyanto, the Consul General of Indonesia in Johor Bahru. Their presence underscored the importance of this collaboration in strengthening cross-border relations. Also present was Guntur Sakti, Head of the Riau Islands Provincial Tourism Office, further highlighting the regional commitment to enhancing cooperation in tourism and culture.
“This direct ferry route will not only provide convenience for tourists from Johor Bahru but will also attract more international visitors to Bintan, reinforcing our position as a leading tourism hub in the region,” said Mr. Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer of Bintan Resorts. “We believe this new route will serve as a catalyst for tourism growth, driving economic benefits for both Indonesia and Malaysia.”
The collaboration also highlights the increasing role of Johor Bahru as a key transportation hub, with Pasir Gudang Port emerging as an important gateway for international travelers. M. Sapril from The International Golden Shipping remarked, “This partnership is a testament to our commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the development of tourism infrastructures.”
The ferry service, which is expected to begin operations in December 2024 will cater to a wide range of passengers, including leisure travelers, business tourists, and holidaymakers from across Southeast Asia.
