Kepri (Riau Islands) and Johor Bahru are set to launch the Special Border Treatment (SBT) program to strengthen cross-border ties and boost tourism. Spearheaded by Indonesia’s Consulate General in Johor Bahru, the initiative aims to provide exclusive incentives for residents traveling between the two regions.
The Special Border Treatment program was discussed during a meeting led by Indonesia’s Consul General in Johor Bahru, Sigit S. Widiyanto, and attended by Kepri’s Tourism Chief, Guntur Sakti. Stakeholders from Tourism Malaysia, Tourism Johor, and several industry associations joined the discussion. The program seeks to facilitate seamless travel and strengthen economic and cultural ties between the neighboring regions.
SBT will provide residents of Kepri and Johor with special privileges such as discounts on hotels, restaurants, and shopping. Travelers will need to show identification, such as a Kepri ID card or a Johor IC, to access these benefits.
The program aims to deepen cultural and economic collaboration between Kepri and Johor, leveraging their geographic proximity and shared heritage. The initiative is expected to drive footfall in tourist hotspots and boost local businesses.
Kepri is eyeing 3 million international visitors in 2024, with SBT expected to play a key role in achieving this target. Johor, meanwhile, hopes to capitalize on its direct connectivity to Singapore and neighboring regions to attract more tourists.
The program will be officially launched at the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Johor Bahru in January 2025, marking a significant milestone in regional tourism development.
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A task force comprising industry stakeholders will identify participants for SBT, ensuring smooth execution. The task force will collaborate to create attractive packages and streamline benefits for travelers.
The SBT program simplifies travel while offering attractive perks in both Kepri and Johor. With cross-border incentives and enhanced connectivity, the initiative is poised to redefine regional tourism.
Kepri and Johor are launching the Special Border Treatment program to boost tourism and strengthen cross-border ties. Scheduled for an official debut at the ASEAN Tourism Forum in January 2025, the initiative offers discounts and incentives to travelers, fostering greater cultural and economic collaboration.
Sources: RRI, Batam Pos (2024)
Keywords: Kepri-Johor Tourism, Special Border Program, Travel Boost
