The inauguration of the Gold Coast International Ferry Terminal in Bengkong, Batam on April 14, 2025, marks a significant milestone in enhancing the city’s role as a center for trade, tourism, and investment. Now Batam boasts six international ferry terminals, with this latest addition serving the Batam–Stulang Laut route daily. Batam Mayor and BP Batam Head, Amsakar Achmad, emphasized the terminal’s potential to boost accessibility and connectivity—two vital pillars for the city’s status as a Free Trade and Port Zone. In 2024, Batam welcomed 1.3 million international visitors, an 11% increase from the previous year. With the terminal now operational, the government is optimistic about reaching 1.7 million tourist visits in 2025.
The Gold Coast terminal is expected to stimulate local economic growth, facilitate smoother flow of goods and people, and solidify Batam's strategic position in western Indonesia. The Governor of Riau Islands, Ansar Ahmad, reaffirmed provincial support for infrastructure development like this, recognizing its crucial role in sustaining economic expansion. Minister of Infrastructure and Regional Development Coordination, Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono, alongside national police chief General Listyo Sigit Prabowo, officiated the terminal’s opening. Their presence underscores strong government backing for Batam’s ongoing transformation into a logistics and investment hub. The launch of the Gold Coast terminal not only signifies improved maritime infrastructure but also opens new doors for economic opportunities and regional connectivity.
