The tourism sector in Batam, part of the Riau Islands Province (Kepri), is set to benefit from a new presidential regulation, President Regulation No. 95 of 2024, which introduces visa-free entry for citizens of Hong Kong, Suriname, and Colombia, as well as permanent residents from Singapore. The move is expected to increase both tourist visits and investments in the region.
Issued on September 19, 2024, the regulation aligns with Kepri’s strategic goals to enhance its appeal as a tourist destination and investment hub. This policy expansion is welcomed by local tourism operators and governmental officials who anticipate significant economic and cultural benefits.
The tourism sector in Batam, part of the Riau Islands Province (Kepri), is set to benefit from a new presidential regulation, President Regulation No. 95 of 2024, which introduces visa-free entry for citizens of Hong Kong, Suriname, and Colombia, as well as permanent residents from Singapore. The move is expected to increase both tourist visits and investments in the region.
The inclusion of permanent residents from Singapore, potentially numbering around 1.7 million individuals from diverse nations, stands to substantially elevate tourist and investment engagements in the region. Steven Japari speculated that if even 10% of these residents visit Kepri regularly, it could translate to 170,000 additional visitors each month.
Governor of the Riau Islands, Ansar Ahmad, echoed the sentiment, expressing hope that the swift implementation of this policy would catalyze the local tourism industry and wider economic development. He specifically highlighted the inclusion of Singaporean permanent residents under this policy as a key factor that could enhance Kepri’s competitiveness.
Guntur Sakti, Head of the Kepri Provincial Tourism Office, celebrated the potential influx of tourists not only from the specifically named countries but also from among the significant expatriate community in Singapore. He noted that while the immediate focus is on tourism, the broader economic implications are substantial, potentially affecting various sectors.
The technical guidelines necessary for the full implementation of this regulation are still pending, with local stakeholders eagerly awaiting these details to fully capitalize on the anticipated benefits. The hope is that clear and efficient procedures will ensure the region can maximize the potential influx of visitors and investment.
Read More: Presidential Regulation Issued: Visa-Free Entry Expected to Boost Kepri’s Tourism
The new visa-free policy by the Kepri government under President Jokowi’s administration is seen as a strategic move to reinvigorate the local economy through tourism and investment. By easing entry for tourists from selected nations and residents of Singapore, Kepri aims to position itself more prominently on the international stage.
Kepri is set to enhance its tourism sector and attract more international investments with the introduction of a visa-free entry policy for selected countries and Singaporean residents. This move is part of broader efforts to boost economic activities and regional development.
Source: Gokepri (2024)
