BENGKULU (ISL News) - PT Pelabuhan Tanjung Priok (PTP Nonpetikemas) Bengkulu Branch for the first time operated a drop tank service for liquid bulk loading and unloading activities at Pulau Baai Port, Bengkulu (8/5). This inaugural activity was marked by the loading of PFAD (Palm Fatty Acid Distillate) commodities using the Drop Tank method with the MT. SILKROAD 06 ship bound for Jakarta. This service is a company innovation program that has previously been carried out at Pangkal Balam Port.
Drop Tank Service on MT. SILKROAD 06 Ship docked at Bengkulu Port on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 11.00 WIB and loading process service until Monday, May 11, 2026 involving PT Olein Sawit Lestari as Shipper.
This activity marks a significant milestone as it marks the first implementation of the drop tank method in Bengkulu for handling liquid bulk cargo. This system serves as a transit point for cargo from trucks before being pumped onto ships, ensuring more effective, faster, and more controlled operational processes.
The implementation of the drop tank method is a strategic step for the company in addressing operational challenges, particularly in improving the speed and efficiency of liquid bulk cargo loading. This system allows unloading from trucks to the transit medium (drop tank) to be carried out simultaneously before being pumped onto ships, thus optimizing service times.
PTP Nonpetikemas President Director, Indra Hidayat Sani, said that the implementation of this drop tank service is part of the company's innovation program and strategy to improve the quality of port operational services.
"This is an effort to provide a more effective, efficient, and integrated liquid bulk service process. This innovation was previously implemented at Pangkal Balam Port and is now being implemented in Bengkulu. We hope this innovation will support smooth logistics and increase the port's competitiveness," he said.
According to Mochammad Choiron Yusuf, Branch Manager of PTP Non-Container, Bengkulu Branch, "This inaugural activity marks a significant milestone for us in providing more effective and efficient services at the Port of Bengkulu. With the support of equipment such as pumps and an integrated distribution system, the PFAD loading process can be carried out more quickly, while still prioritizing safety and environmental aspects," Choiron said.
Previously, the handling of liquid bulk cargo relied on conventional methods, requiring lengthy transfer times. With the implementation of drop tanks, operational patterns have become more structured and integrated, resulting in increased productivity and reduced port stays.
In addition to improving operational performance, implementing this method also enhances the implementation of Health, Safety, Security, & Environment (HSSE) aspects. A more closed and controlled system minimizes the potential for spills and maintains a clean port environment.
As the distribution of palm oil derivative commodities from the Bengkulu region increases, the Bengkulu Branch of PTP Nonpetikemas will continue to promote service innovation to support smooth national logistics. The implementation of this drop tank is expected to be the beginning of the development of a more modern and competitive operational system at Pulau Baai Port.
PTP Nonpetikemas is committed to continuously delivering innovation and service improvements, as well as strengthening collaboration with all stakeholders to create a reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly port.
(ISL News Editorial Team/Corcom PTP NonPetikemas)
