The Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) Batam, along with the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy (Kemenparekraf), are making concerted efforts to address the high ferry ticket prices between Batam and Singapore that have persisted post-COVID-19.

The high cost of ferry tickets between Batam and Singapore has been a significant concern for tourism in the Riau Islands. Both Kadin Batam and Kemenparekraf are pushing for regulatory measures and strategic solutions to make travel more affordable and boost tourism.

Kadin Batam is urging Muhammad Rudi, the head of the Batam Indonesia Free Zone Authority (BP Batam), to issue a regulation that will set upper and lower limits for the ferry ticket prices. This move aims to prevent market-driven prices from escalating uncontrollably.

Kemenparekraf, led by Sandiaga Uno, is coordinating with the Ministry of Transportation to increase the number of ferries operating between Batam and Singapore. The goal is to create more competition and, consequently, drive down ticket prices.

Current round-trip ferry ticket prices from Batam to Singapore stand at SGD 76 (approximately Rp 889,555). The price includes additional fees at departure and arrival gates, contributing to the overall high cost.

To further boost tourism, Kemenparekraf has proposed a reduction in the Visa on Arrival (VoA) fees for international tourists, currently awaiting approval from the Ministry of Finance. This measure is expected to make the Riau Islands a more attractive destination.

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Both Kadin and Kemenparekraf are committed to working together with various stakeholders to ensure the ferry ticket pricing is conducive to the growth of tourism in Batam and the surrounding regions.

These efforts signal a potential reduction in travel costs between Batam and Singapore. A successful implementation of these initiatives could lead to more affordable travel options, enhancing the appeal of the Riau Islands as a tourist destination.

Efforts are underway by Kadin Batam and Kemenparekraf to address the high ferry ticket prices between Batam and Singapore, a significant concern for tourism in the Riau Islands. Proposed measures include regulatory limits on pricing, an increase in ferry operations, and a reduction in Visa on Arrival fees, all aimed at making travel more affordable and boosting tourism.

Source: Tribun News, Detik Sumut (2024)