JAKARTA (ISL News) — Digitalization is a strategic factor in improving the safety and efficiency of pilotage and towing services within IPC Marine's operations. The use of digital systems enables ship service processes to be more integrated, faster, more transparent, and more measurable.
Pilotage services play a crucial role in ensuring ships can safely enter, navigate, and exit port areas. Pilotage assists the captain in determining maneuvers based on shipping lane conditions, weather, ship traffic density, and local water characteristics.
Meanwhile, towing services support ships in maneuvering, especially large vessels with limited maneuvering space. Tugboats assist in pushing, pulling, and steering vessels, ensuring safe docking, undocking, and movement in port waters.
The role of the Pilot and Tugboat Services implemented by PT Jasa Armada Indonesia Tbk, also known by its business brand IPC Marine, has received praise from Siswanto Rusdi, Director of the National Maritime Institute (Namarin). According to Siswanto, IPC Marine has performed its role and function well, providing services for ships docking and departing after docking at the port.
"And the role of IPCM has certainly become more sophisticated since implementing modern digital services, thereby speeding up service times for ships entering the port or ships about to sail," said Siswanto.
It was stated that the implementation of digitalization strengthens both services through the availability of real-time operational information. Data related to ship schedules, service requests, ship positions, operational conditions, and coordination between officers can be managed within an integrated system.
"Digital systems can also help improve the accuracy of decision-making. Rapidly available information allows operational personnel to monitor vessel movements and prepare for pilotage or towing needs based on actual conditions on the ground," Siswanto continued.
Service Efficiency
From a safety perspective, data integration and digital communications can minimize the potential for coordination errors. Pilots, captains, tugboat crews, and the operational control center have access to the necessary information, allowing each stage of a ship's movement to be more systematically planned and monitored.
Digitalization also impacts service efficiency. Administrative processes and information delivery, which previously required significant time, can now be handled electronically. This reduces waiting times and optimizes the use of operational resources.
"For IPC Marine, digital transformation in pilotage and towing services is not only about the use of technology, but also about shifting work patterns toward data-driven operations. System reliability, human resource competence, and adherence to safety procedures remain key factors in the success of this transformation," Siswanto said.
"Going forward, the development of increasingly integrated digital systems is expected to strengthen oversight, improve service quality, and support faster decision-making. By combining personnel competency with modern technology, pilotage and towing services can become a crucial foundation for safe, efficient, and reliable ship navigation in IPC Marine's operational areas," he added.
(Saiful Anam/ ISL News Journalist).
