REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, BATAM -- A Batam-Singapore ferry with 97 passengers and crews reportedly sank after hitting a floating object, Sunday (29/11). The ferry was heading to Singapore from Nongsa Pura Port Batam.
"All passengers were rescued," said Head of Nongsa Pura Port Batam, Syahrim, Monday (30/11).
He stated, the accident was most likely caused by human error. While, the current weather between waters of Indonesia and Singapore was good.
Several ships that were sailing close to the ferry, provided help to all passengers. The passengers were evacuated and survived with no injuries.
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"Currently, the passengers have been taken to another ship to Singapore," he added.
After the incident, Syahrim reminded all skippers to be more cautious, given the shipping route from Batam to Singapore is very crowded. In addition to passenger ships, there are also many cargo ships and tankers with large size.
"Safety should be the main thing. Given the crowded waters. The skipper should really examine the condition of the waters around that things like that do not happen again," he said.
Cruise from Batam to Singapore could be reached in under 60 minutes. Aside from Nongsa Pura, cruise to Singapore could also be served from Marina, Sekupang, Batam Centre.
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