The sinking of the Tunu Pratama Jaya Ferry in the Bali Strait has cast a spotlight on the critical need for a thorough overhaul of Indonesia’s maritime transportation safety system, particularly for inter-island routes. Dr. Ing. Ir. Setyo Nugroho, a marine transportation expert and Dean of the Faculty of Marine Technology at the Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS), has weighed in on the matter, highlighting the multifaceted nature of ship accidents and the urgent need for systemic improvements.
Nugroho, affectionately known as Yoyok, emphasized that human negligence is the root cause of nearly 90% of ship accidents. “Almost 90 percent of ship accidents occur due to human negligence,” he stated, pointing to inadequate maintenance and improper cargo handling as primary culprits. “From the human negligence factor, 80 percent of it occurred because the cargo was not handled properly,” he explained, underscoring the importance of accurate cargo planning and stability calculations.
However, human factors are not the sole contributors to maritime mishaps. Nugroho also highlighted the role of extreme weather conditions, which have become increasingly unpredictable in recent years. “Unstable weather causes high sea waves that endanger ships,” he noted, adding that the combination of bad weather, improper ship operation, and poor maintenance can create a perfect storm of risk.
The Tunu Pratama Jaya incident, according to Nugroho, exemplifies the confluence of these factors. “This shows that shipping safety in Indonesia needs serious attention,” he asserted, calling for a comprehensive evaluation of operational standards, including loading procedures, ship maintenance, and navigation management.
To address these challenges, Nugroho has been at the forefront of digitalization efforts, developing the iStow application to prevent accidents caused by cargo arrangement errors. This initiative not only aims to enhance maritime safety but also supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to infrastructure, industry, innovation, and marine ecosystem preservation.
Nugroho’s insights suggest that the future of maritime safety in Indonesia—and indeed, globally—lies in a multi-pronged approach that combines rigorous operational standards, advanced technology, and academic research. By addressing human factors, improving maintenance protocols, and leveraging digital tools, the maritime industry can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure safer passage for both cargo and passengers.
The sinking of the Tunu Pratama Jaya Ferry serves as a stark reminder of the work that lies ahead. As Nugroho noted, universities and academic institutions have a crucial role to play in driving these improvements. By fostering innovation, conducting research, and collaborating with industry stakeholders, academics can help shape a safer, more sustainable maritime future.
The incident also raises broader questions about the resilience of maritime infrastructure in the face of climate change. As weather patterns become more erratic, the industry must adapt and evolve to mitigate risks. This could involve investing in more robust vessel designs, enhancing weather forecasting capabilities, and developing contingency plans for extreme conditions.
Moreover, the focus on human factors highlights the need for ongoing training and education for maritime personnel. Ensuring that crews are well-versed in safety protocols, cargo handling, and emergency procedures can go a long way in preventing accidents. This underscores the importance of continuous professional development and the integration of best practices into maritime education curricula.
In the wake of the Tunu Pratama Jaya tragedy, the maritime industry stands at a crossroads. The lessons learned from this incident must translate into concrete actions that prioritize safety, sustainability, and innovation. By heeding the insights of experts like Nugroho and embracing a proactive approach to maritime safety, the industry can navigate the challenges ahead and steer towards a safer, more resilient future.