Batam City is set to unveil an innovative digital solution known as Simfoni, designed to streamline cemetery management. This online platform is expected to enhance convenience for the local community and revamp the way cemeteries are perceived.
During a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) held at the Planet Holiday Hotel in Jodoh on April 30, 2023, Batam City’s Secretary, Jefridin, revealed plans for the introduction of the Simfoni app. The objective behind this digital cemetery management system is to simplify the process for residents. The FGD aimed to formulate a comprehensive draft of a local regulation (Ranperda) on cemetery management that aligns with the modern era’s trends. This regulation is intended to improve the quality of cemetery services for the public. Jefridin expressed that this local regulation concerning cemetery management would serve as the legal foundation for the conduct of cemetery affairs within Batam City. Until recently, the management of public burial grounds (TPU) in three locations was overseen by foundations, namely Sei Temiang, Sungai Panas, and Kavling Bagan. Jefridin disclosed that these responsibilities had been transferred to Batam City. He emphasized that as per the provisions of Law No. 1 of 2022 regarding Financial Relations between the Central Government and Regional Governments, cemetery services do not fall under the category of revenue-generating activities.
Efforts are underway to innovate cemetery areas, transforming them from somber spaces to comfortable environments complete with gardens. The goal is to change perceptions so that cemeteries become tourist attractions for local residents, domestic tourists, and international visitors.
Batam City’s Department of Housing for the People, Settlements, and Parks (Perakimtan) is spearheading the local regulation on cemetery management. Its main objectives include establishing legal certainty in the administration of cemeteries within the region and ensuring the availability of burial sites in accordance with urban spatial plans.
Cemeteries will be categorized into public cemeteries, non-public cemeteries, and special cemeteries. Those managed by Batam City fall into the public cemetery category.
Currently, Batam City charges fees for burial services at three TPU locations: Sei Temiang, Seipanas, and Kavling Bagan.
Batam City is actively proposing new burial sites in six locations, including five within Batam and one on the hinterland, specifically on Pulau Sekanak Raya in the Belakangpadang District.
The introduction of the Simfoni app and the local regulation on cemetery management signify Batam City’s commitment to modernizing its burial practices. This transformation aims to create more inviting and user-friendly cemetery spaces while ensuring legal compliance and providing convenient access to cemetery information for the public.
Batam City is embracing digital innovation with the launch of the Simfoni app for cemetery management. This move not only enhances convenience for residents but also seeks to redefine cemeteries as tourist-friendly spaces. The new regulation governing cemetery affairs reflects the city’s commitment to improving burial practices while offering legal clarity and easy access to cemetery information for the public.
Source: GoKepri (2023)
