Ferry Sinking: Search Efforts in Southern Bali Strait
Bali Strait Search Intensifies: 11 Days On, Focus Shifts South for KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya victims
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Banyuwangi, East Java – Eleven days into the relentless search for victims of the sunken KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya, the joint search and rescue (SAR) team has intensified it’s operations, focusing efforts on the southern Bali strait. This strategic shift comes as several bodies have been recovered from this particular area, indicating a potential concentration of the tragedy’s impact.
Southern Waters Become Focal Point for SAR Operations
Ribut Eko Suyatno, Deputy for Search and Rescue Operations and Preparedness at the National Search and rescue Agency (Basarnas), confirmed the renewed focus. “On the first day of the second extension of the search, our sea SAR unit team conducted a surface search in the south,” Suyatno stated during a press conference held at Ketapang Port, Banyuwangi, East Java, on Saturday.
Complementing the maritime efforts, the land-based SAR unit, under the coordination of the Banyuwangi Police chief and the Banyuwangi Military district commander, is also diligently scouring the coastline. Their search area extends southward from Ketapang Port towards Muncar Beach, aiming to cover all potential recovery zones.
Advanced Equipment Deployed in Extensive Search
Basarnas has marshalled its primary SAR assets for this critical phase. These include helicopters, the specialized vessels KN SAR Permada and KN SAR Arjuna, and rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) from Banyuwangi and Denpasar, Bali.
The scale of the operation is further underscored by the total number of SAR equipment deployed. Beyond Basarnas’ dedicated fleet,an additional 30 pieces of equipment have been contributed by the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI),Indonesian National Police (Polri),the Ministry of Transportation,state-owned ferry and port operator PT ASDP,and various local governments.
“Basarnas has 11 equipment, while the TNI, polri, and local governments have 30 equipment,” Suyatno elaborated. “A total of 548 personnel are involved in this SAR operation. This demonstrates the government’s maximum involvement in the search and evacuation efforts.”
KMP Tunu Pratama jaya Tragedy: A Recap
The KMP Tunu Pratama Jaya, carrying 53 passengers, 12 crew members, and 22 vehicles, tragically sank on July 2 while en route to Gilimanuk Port in Bali. The incident has deeply affected the region, prompting a massive and coordinated response.
As of July 12, 2025, the Joint SAR Operations Post and SAR Potential at Ketapang Port have recorded 30 survivors and 17 confirmed deaths. Tragically, 18 individuals remain unaccounted for, fueling the ongoing urgency of the search.
The commitment of resources and personnel highlights the nation’s dedication to bringing closure to the families affected by this devastating maritime incident. The search continues with unwavering resolve.