Infrastructure Challenges for Innovative Floating Bank Service Implementation in Outer Island Areas

This study focuses on the evaluation of innovative floating banking infrastructure for archipelagic regions, particularly the 3T-area (Frontmost, Outermost, Least Developed) in South Halmahera by Bahtera Seva III ship, owned by Bank Republik Indonesia (BRI). The study has three primary objectives: (1) to assess the physical conditions of the ports serviced by Bahtera Seva III; (2) to evaluate user satisfaction and perceived service quality; and (3) to analyze the influence of existing port infrastructure on the inclusivity and effectiveness of the floating banking services. Despite the innovative nature of the service, its operational effectiveness is constrained by inadequate port infrastructure in several locations. Employing a quantitative survey method, data were collected from 225 respondents across five serviced islands through structured questionnaires and field observations. The findings indicate a statistically significant negative impact of poor port infrastructure on the perceived service quality of the floating bank. These results highlight the critical role of infrastructure readiness in supporting effective public service delivery and advancing financial inclusion in Indonesia's remote and underserved regions.