Shipping Safety Must Be a Foundation, Not Just an Administrative Thing
Banjarmasin — The tragic sinking of the KM Putri Sakinah in Labuan Bajo waters is an important reminder that shipping safety should not be treated merely as an administrative requirement. This was emphasized by Prof. Dr. Iphan Fitrian Radam, S.T., M.T., IPU, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at Lambung Mangkurat University (ULM) and a transportation observer, who believes that safety aspects must be the primary foundation of all maritime transportation activities.
Quoting the January 6, 2026, edition of Bpost, Prof. Iphan believes that a sailing permit is not merely a formality, but a crucial instrument for ensuring the safety, security, comfort, convenience, and regularity of shipping operations.
“A sailing permit is the first step in determining whether a ship is truly airworthy. When this process is simplified without strict oversight, the risk of accidents increases significantly,” he said.
He emphasized that supervision of the seaworthiness of passenger ships, including in regions like South Kalimantan, must be carried out comprehensively and continuously. Supervision is not limited to the operational stage; it also needs to include audits, inspections, surveillance, monitoring, and periodic spot checks or ramp checks.
In the regulatory context, Prof. Iphan emphasized that the Minimum Service Standards (SPM) as stipulated in Minister of Transportation Regulation Number 62 of 2019 must be the primary reference. This is where the role of harbormasters becomes very strategic, not only as permit issuers but also as active supervisors of shipping safety and security.
“The role of harbormasters must be maximized. They are not merely administrative, but also the primary guardians of shipping safety,” he emphasized.
Prof. Iphan also highlighted extreme weather and the potential for high tides, or tidal flooding, which often pose external challenges to shipping. While these factors are unavoidable, Prof. Iphan emphasized that in these conditions, the ship’s seaworthiness is the primary determinant of whether a ship can sail or not.
“The ship must be designed and prepared to protect passengers, cargo, and equipment, while minimizing the risk of safety disruptions,” he explained.
Furthermore, Prof. Prof. Iphan emphasized that maritime accident prevention efforts must be carried out comprehensively and collaboratively. Regulations are already in place, including Law Number 66 of 2024, amending Law Number 17 of 2008, which governs maritime safety and its sanctions. However, implementation and collective commitment are key.
In addition to port managers and ship operators, he reminded that passengers also play a crucial role in maritime safety. Compliance with regulations, such as wearing life jackets and occupying designated seats, is part of accident risk mitigation. Provision of such safety equipment is also mandatory in ferry transportation standards.
“If maritime transportation managers, operators, and users can synergize and share a commitment to safety, the risk of unwanted accidents can be reduced,” concluded Prof. Iphan.
Prof. Iphan’s views emphasize the university’s expertise in providing scientifically based analysis on national transportation safety issues, while also serving as an important reference for policymakers and the wider public. (Public Relations/AM)
