93 travellers from over 150 countries didn’t need to have a visa when arriving in Indonesia. Since Covid, there is now a VOA fee of around $10 per person for non-ASEAN passport holders. As a result, our passenger numbers haven’t fully recovered.” Tan is quick to point out the contrast with neighbouring countries. “If you look at Southeast Asia – Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand – they are all visa-free. But Indonesia still requires VOA, and it affects our ridership. The result is a drag on recovery despite strong fundamentals in demand and service capability.” While navigating these policy headwinds, Majestic Fast Ferry is also planning for a lower-emissions future. The company is already exploring a range of fuel alternatives, though Tan is realistic about the pace of technological change in the region. “Our engines are approved for B30 biodiesel at this moment, and last year Majestic Fast Ferry and MTU entered into a memorandum of understanding to study the use of B50 and higher,” he says. “Hydrotreated vegetable oil is another alternative energy, but we feel that within Southeast Asia, bio-marine gas oils will be the next source of green energy.” Despite growing pressure to embrace greener propulsion systems, current options are not a perfect fit for Majestic Fast Ferry’s fleet, says Tan. “For the size of vessels we have, we still need to wait for makers to come out with a better fuelto-power ratio. The current green energy options are not workable for us due to space constraints.” That sense of pragmatism – recognising opportunity while respecting technical limitations – runs through much of Majestic Fast Ferry’s operating philosophy. As the company looks to the next five to 10 years, Tan sees a future shaped by both innovation and continuity. “We want to stay ahead of the curve – not just in terms of vessel technology but also in our service culture,” he says. “Expansion is always on the table, but it has to be smart growth. At the same time, we’re mentoring the next generation of maritime professionals, because continuity in leadership and values is just as important as new engines or faster hulls.” Unity of Majestic, which was built in collaboration with Incat Crowther and PT Cahaya Samudra, can carry 343 passengers in spacious seating areas “ Expansion is always on the table, but it has to be smart growth” INTERVIEW
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