Bank Rakyat Indonesia (BRI) has launched a floating banking service using the vessel Kapal Bahtera Seva II to serve residents of several islands in South Halmahera Regency, North Maluku. The initiative aims to improve access to financial transactions and business financing for island communities. On Monday, 26 October, BRI field officer Wiranto Jumran of the Bacan unit explained that the service covers savings, money transfers, and business credit applications, including the Kredit Usaha Rakyat (KUR). “For banking services in South Halmahera, we visit about seven to eight islands,” he said. “With this mobile service, people can meet their banking needs without traveling far to a branch.” The vessel operates on a weekly schedule. From the first to the third week of each month, the route starts on Monday with visits to Desa Bajo and Desa Lelei, continues to Desa Madopolo on Tuesday, serves Desa Gane Dalam and Desa Pasipalele on Wednesday, and reaches Desa Saketa on Thursday and Desa Kayoa Guruapin on Friday. In the fourth week, the schedule adjusts to local needs, visiting Desa Bajo and Desa Lelei on Monday, Desa Madopolo on Tuesday, Desa Dowora and Desa Pasipalele on Wednesday, Desa Saketa on Thursday, and Desa Kayoa Busua on Friday. Wiranto noted geographic challenges as a key obstacle. Limited docking facilities mean the vessel cannot always berth directly at the destination, requiring small boats to ferry staff and customers. “If there is no pier that the ship can dock at, we have to use a boat to reach the village. From one village to another, we sometimes also need a boat,” he explained. Adverse weather, such as heavy rain and high waves, and technical issues with the boat’s engine can also delay service. Despite these challenges, the officer believes the floating banking service benefits especially small business owners in remote areas who need easier transaction and financing options. “From what I have seen and heard directly from the community, this service is very helpful, particularly for customers who run businesses in agriculture and other sectors and need working capital,” he said. The Kapal Bahtera Seva II is staffed by four BRI employees: a customer service officer, a teller, and two business and marketing officers. The service has reportedly reached approximately 400 customers, with more than 30 customers applying for credit.
Article source: Koran Jakarta | Image credit: Koran Jakarta