Mayor Amsakar Achmad prioritizes waste management with new fleet acquisition.
In a strategic move to enhance Batam’s waste management capabilities, the city has acquired 14 new Armroll Trucks from PT Hino. This initiative aligns with Mayor Amsakar Achmad’s commitment to addressing the city’s waste challenges.
Batam has been grappling with waste management issues, with previous reports highlighting overflowing garbage and inefficient collection systems. The addition of new trucks aims to address these challenges and improve urban cleanliness.
New Fleet to Tackle Waste Crisis
On March 3, 2025, the Batam City Government, through the Environmental Agency (DLH), received 14 Armroll Trucks from PT Hino. The handover ceremony coincided with the inauguration of Mayor Amsakar Achmad and Deputy Mayor Li Claudia Chandra. This procurement is part of the 2025 initiative to enhance waste management infrastructure.
Mayor’s Commitment to Environmental Health
In his inaugural address at the Batam Regional House of Representatives (DPRD), Mayor Amsakar emphasized the critical importance of waste management. He stated, “I am confident that with the support of the facilities and infrastructure we currently have, we can resolve the waste problem. Hopefully, with the addition of this new fleet, the community’s needs regarding waste issues can be better met.”
Strategic Investments in Waste Management
Beyond the new trucks, the mayor announced plans to acquire an additional bulldozer to further enhance waste processing efficiency. He highlighted that the Environmental Agency’s budget for the year is among the largest, underscoring the administration’s dedication to environmental health. “A large budget must be balanced with even greater performance,” Amsakar asserted.
Reflecting on a recent seven-day retreat in Malang, Mayor Amsakar identified other urban concerns needing immediate attention. These include regulating scattered billboards and improving substandard school facilities. He remarked, “During our seven-day retreat in Malang, several points became the President’s attention, which are expected to be implemented in the regions, besides waste issues, billboards, and also improving school facilities.”
The administration’s proactive measures aim to foster community engagement in maintaining cleanliness and adopting sustainable waste disposal practices. The new fleet is expected to significantly reduce waste accumulation in public areas, promoting a healthier environment for residents and visitors alike.
While Batam struggles with waste mismanagement, other organizations have shown that sustainable solutions are possible. Tanjung Uma Empowerment Program (TUEP) has been actively working towards promoting environmental sustainability alongside community development. Its commitment to empowering local communities through education and economic initiatives could serve as a model for integrating environmental responsibility with economic progress in Batam.
Similarly, Livingseas Foundation has pioneered marine conservation efforts, proving that sustainable waste management and ecosystem protection can go hand in hand. By involving local communities in long-term environmental restoration, Livingseas Foundation showcases the impact of collective action in tackling large-scale environmental issues.
The enhancement of Batam’s waste management infrastructure is a positive development for both residents and visitors. A cleaner city environment not only improves public health but also enhances Batam’s appeal as a tourist destination and investment hub. Effective waste management practices are crucial for sustainable urban development, benefiting the broader community and the environment.
Sources: Gokepri (2025), Batam News (2025)
Keywords: Batam, Waste Management, PT Hino, Garbage Trucks, Amsakar Achmad, Environmental Initiatives, Public Health, Infrastructure Development, Sustainable City Planning, Urban Cleanliness
