SINGAPORE: Approval has been given for a direct ferry service between Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal (TMFT) in Singapore and Desaru Coast Ferry Terminal (DCFT) in Johor, says the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA).

       MPA stated that on March 23, 2022, it received a proposal from Batamfast, the appointed ferry services operator of Desaru Link Ferry Services, to operate a new ferry service between the terminals.

       To assess the navigational safety of the new ferry route, MPA said it had asked Batamfast to conduct a maritime safety assessment, including an attestation by certifying authorities that the ferries were fit for the proposed voyage.

       An emergency response plan covering the route was also requested.

       “BatamFast has since submitted the required details.

       “MPA has reviewed the submission and assessed that Batamfast had met the safety requirements for the proposed service,” MPA said in a statement.

       MPA said it had also informed Batamfast, the Johor Port Authority and the Malaysian Marine Department that it had approved Batamfast’s application to operate the proposed ferry service.

       Besides the proposed direct route between TMFT and DCFT, MPA said it had also approved Batamfast’s application of an alternative route between TMFT and Tanjung Pengelih Ferry Terminal to be utilised in the event of inclement weather or rough sea conditions.

       “The commencement of the new ferry service is pending Batamfast’s final preparations to operate this new ferry service, including obtaining the necessary approvals from other authorities,” it said. — Bernama