"We support the opening (expansion) of the route because it will further increase (the number of tourists) and it will definitely benefit both parties," he said at a press conference after the launching ceremony of the new ferry service linking Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal with Gold Coast Ferry Terminal in Bengkong, Batam.

Sigit said this when asked to comment on the number of Indonesian tourists arriving in the country.

Commenting further on the existing transportation network, Sigit said that out of 11 passenger ferry routes between Malaysia and Indonesia, eight of them are in Johor, while the air routes from that country to this state only connect Jakarta and Surabaya.

At the same time, he noted that Malaysia also contributes to Indonesia’s tourism sector, with 40 per cent of international passengers using the 'Whoosh' high-speed rail service being Malaysians.

Commenting on the border security issue, Sigit said that the KJRI always collaborates closely and provides information to the authorities in Indonesia to combat syndicates bringing in illegal immigrants who are detected offering services on social media.

He said various preventive measures, including actions to remove advertisements for illegal boat syndicates, have been successfully implemented, thereby showing a downward trend in such activities.

Previously, the ferry service company from Indonesia, B Ferry, launched an international ferry route connecting the Puteri Harbour International Ferry Terminal here with the Gold Coast Bengkong Ferry Terminal in Batam.

Sigit said that Bengkong, located in the west of Batam, is an area that is developing with various new attractions.

According to him, the opening of the route not only provides travel options for Johor residents to Batam but also makes it easier for tourists from the area to visit popular destinations in the state such as Legoland.

Meanwhile, B Ferry stated that the opening of the route is an important step in strengthening the relationship between Johor and Batam, while also benefitting the state in conjunction with the Visit Johor Year 2026.

"This opening is hoped to bring benefits through the tourism economy, increase tourist arrivals, maintain state revenue, and create business and job opportunities for the local community," he added.

--BERNAMA