Deputy Chair of Commission X of the DPR RI, Dede Yusuf, has praised the Mayor of Batam, Muhammad Rudi, for his effective leadership in developing the city, particularly in the tourism sector, setting an example for regional growth.
During a work visit to Batam City Hall, Commission X members, including notable figures such as Desy Ratnasari, highlighted the city’s initiatives to attract both domestic and international tourists as exemplary compared to other regions reliant solely on central government support.
Plans are underway to incorporate Batam’s development strategies into a new Tourism Bill, expected to be passed soon, which aims to formalize support for similar proactive local efforts across Indonesia.
Photo: Warta Kepri (2024)
Mayor Rudi showcased several strategic projects that have been pivotal in doubling tourist visits to Batam post-COVID-19, with a notable increase of 18% from pre-pandemic levels.
Ongoing projects include road expansions, an international standard airport and hospital, and a new international seaport, all aimed at enhancing the city’s accessibility and appeal.
These developments are expected to significantly boost local revenue and improve the quality of life for residents, aligning with both regional and national government objectives.
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The mayor also expressed intentions to collaborate further with the city government to organize more cultural and sporting events, boosting Batam’s profile as a vibrant tourist destination.
Batam’s ambitious tourism projects offer new reasons to visit, reflecting a broader trend of regional empowerment in Indonesia that enhances local economies and cultural diversity.
Commission X of the DPR RI has acknowledged the efforts of Batam’s Mayor Muhammad Rudi in dynamically advancing the city’s tourism sector. His initiatives, which have notably increased visitor numbers and spurred economic growth, serve as a model for other Indonesian cities aiming to harness tourism for regional development.
Sources: Media Center, Batam Tv (2024)
