During the 1850s, Dutch colonial authorities with interests in both tin mining in Bangka and controlling traffic through the Bangka Strait established a lighthouse at Tanjung Kalian.

Tanjung Kalian was chosen as the construction site due to its location at the western extremity of Bangka, making it clearly visible and prominent to passing ships.

Later, in 1862, the wood-and-steel structure was improved and heightened to 56 metres (184 ft) by the Dutch tin mining company Banka Tin Winning based on an existing British design, becoming a permanent fixture of the port.

[1][2] Prior to 2013, ferry services from the port went directly to Palembang, but the opening of the more nearby Port of Tanjung Api-Api in Banyuasin Regency, South Sumatra, resulted in ferries being redirected there.

Planning is underway for a replacement port which would handle cargo traffic.