Ombudsman flags land disputes and delays in Batam; calls for full audit and inclusive reforms

The Indonesian Ombudsman’s Kepulauan Riau (Kepri) office has called on BP Batam to urgently reform its land governance services, citing persistent complaints from citizens and businesses over inefficiencies, lack of transparency, and overlapping land allocations.

Over the past three years, the Ombudsman received 34 public complaints related to land services under BP Batam. These include opaque land allocation, procedural violations, prolonged administrative delays, and overly complex cut-and-fill permit processes. Issues of overlapping land claims have also triggered widespread disputes.

Additional grievances cited by Kepri Ombudsman Chief Dr. Lagat Siadari include delays in issuing planological certificates, right-transfer permits, and other vital land documentation. Many complainants, including corporations and community members, reported prolonged cases unresolved by BP Batam.

Proposed Multi-Stakeholder Evaluation

In a formal letter sent to BP Batam, the Ombudsman proposed a comprehensive evaluation of land service workflows and licensing practices. This process should involve not only BP Batam’s internal directorates but also key external stakeholders such as investors, developers, academics, and local community representatives.

Action Plan and Oversight Improvements Needed

The letter urges BP Batam to devise a concrete reform roadmap that includes enhanced governance standards, tighter monitoring mechanisms, and preventive supervision strategies to ensure effective land administration and reduced room for mismanagement.

The Ombudsman stressed the importance of resolving ongoing land disputes—especially those involving corporations and residents—through equitable dialogue. These resolutions should respect both development interests and the rights of affected communities, aligning with Batam’s broader economic aspirations.

By improving land governance, the Ombudsman believes BP Batam can help cultivate a more conducive investment environment. Transparent and accountable land services are viewed as critical to attracting sustainable business growth and strengthening investor confidence in the region.

The Ombudsman’s recommendation concludes with a call for participatory policymaking and institutional reform. “Good land governance is essential to Batam’s development and economic stability,” said Dr. Lagat, emphasizing that public accountability and institutional trust must go hand in hand with growth.

Calls for reform at BP Batam underscore how administrative inefficiencies can impact economic momentum. As Batam positions itself as a major investment hub, the pressure is on to deliver land governance that is efficient, equitable, and investor-friendly—backed by institutions that prioritize public trust and inclusive progress.

Sources: RRI (2025), Ombudsman RI (2025)

Keywords: BP Batam, Land Reform, Public Complaints, Ombudsman Kepri, Governance Evaluation, Batam Development