Batam has reaffirmed its role as the main driver of economic growth in the Riau Islands (Kepri), contributing 66.01% to the province's GRDP in 2024. Under the leadership of Amsakar Achmad and Li Claudia Chandra, BP Batam has advanced key infrastructure and fostered an investor-friendly climate. Deputy Head Li Claudia emphasized Batam’s strategic value and expressed commitment to maintaining growth by cultivating an inclusive and adaptable business ecosystem. Fary Francis, Deputy for Investment and Business, added that harmonized and accurate economic data is essential for sound policymaking and building investor trust. In line with President Prabowo Subianto’s vision to make Batam a national economic hub, BP Batam is working closely with the Central Statistics Agency to develop a responsive economic database.
On the ground, BP Batam is also diversifying beyond core industries by promoting agrotourism and marine tourism. During a visit to Kampung Sawah, Fary highlighted the sectors’ strong potential to stimulate the local economy. Open dialogues with business actors aim to incorporate their insights into policy decisions. To further boost investment, BP Batam is simplifying licensing procedures, targeting 10% economic growth by 2029. Recent reforms include eliminating redundant requirements such as Fatwa Planologi and Land Maturation Permits, returning certain approvals to BP Batam, and launching a Real-Time Business Complaint Dashboard. Deputy Mouris Limanto noted that streamlining permits will reduce processing time from 70 days and prevent underutilized land, which often leads to ecological issues like flooding.
