- A ferry traveling from Java to Bali sank late Wednesday night, leaving at least four dead.
- 29 survivors have been rescued; dozens remain missing as search efforts intensify.
- Adverse sea conditions and mechanical failure are suspected causes of the disaster.
A nighttime ferry journey between Indonesia’s Java and Bali islands turned deadly when the Tunu Pratama Jaya sank off the coast of Bali, claiming at least four lives.
Indonesia’s National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) has launched a large-scale operation involving helicopters, underwater divers, and patrol boats.
Nightmare Voyage: Ferry Disaster Off Bali Leaves Dozens Feared Dead
The ferry was en route from Banyuwangi in East Java to Bali’s Gilimanuk Port, a frequently traveled route for locals commuting for work and trade. This corridor is one of the country’s busiest maritime paths, with thousands of daily crossings. The Tunu Pratama Jaya was reportedly operating under standard conditions before it encountered trouble just before midnight.
President Prabowo Subianto, who is currently on an overseas visit to Saudi Arabia, ordered emergency response units to mobilize immediately. “The safety of our people is non-negotiable,” he emphasized in a statement. His swift directive led to the deployment of aerial surveillance and underwater rescue divers, although deteriorating weather has slowed progress.
Eyewitness accounts from survivors paint a grim picture. Eka Toniansyah, who was on board with his father, said the vessel sank “within minutes.” Supardi, another survivor, detailed how he floated for hours with others before daylight arrived. Tragically, one of the people in his group died before they were rescued.
Officials have confirmed there were no foreigners aboard the vessel, as per a preliminary manifest shared by MetroTV. Most passengers hailed from Java, including Banyuwangi and inland towns. The ferry had passed recent inspections, raising concerns about potential systemic lapses in oversight or emergency preparedness onboard.
As the search intensifies, Indonesia is once again confronting the fragility of its maritime safety standards. For the families of the missing, time is now the most precious resource.
“The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever.” — Jacques Cousteau
— In moments like these, that wonder turns to mourning, and resilience rises in the face of tragedy.
