Korean investor explores waste oil recycling venture in Batam with strong BP Batam support
Batam is poised to become a regional hub for recycled waste oil as South Korean investor Kim Junghyeon expresses serious interest in establishing the city’s first re-refined waste machinery oil industry.
Investment Interest from South Korea
On July 8, 2025, BP Batam’s Deputy of Investment and Business Development, Fary Francis, welcomed South Korean investor Kim Junghyeon at the BP Batam Marketing Centre. The meeting centered around Junghyeon’s proposal to launch the first Re-refine Waste Machinery Oil industry in Batam—an environmentally focused project aiming to recycle used oil for export to global markets.
Strong Backing from BP Batam
Fary Francis affirmed BP Batam’s full commitment to support the investment, aligning with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to attract strategic industries to the island. “Mr. Kim’s plan is significant for us. This recycling oil industry will be the first of its kind in Batam,” said Francis. He emphasized that Batam’s legal and industrial framework under Government Regulation No. 25/2025 fully accommodates such operations.
Strategic Facilities Already in Place
Batam’s readiness to host this type of industry is evident. Since 1996, BP Batam has operated the KPLI–B3 facility on a 20.4-hectare site. Currently hosting 33 tenants managing hazardous waste (B3), this facility offers essential infrastructure and licensing tailored for environmentally sustainable businesses. These established capabilities are expected to streamline the investor’s entry and operations.
Clear Vision and Immediate Goals
Junghyeon expressed gratitude for the warm reception and openness of BP Batam. “We’re excited to move forward. Our initial requirement is 5 tons of used oil per day, consistently sourced,” he said. The investor highlighted the need for stable supply and efficient licensing processes to accelerate project realization.
Environmental and Economic Impact
This planned industry not only supports waste reduction but also opens new export opportunities for Indonesia. The project would enhance Batam’s industrial profile and potentially create jobs, transfer green technology, and encourage similar eco-investments. Both BP Batam and local authorities such as the Environmental Protection Division were present to align on the project’s environmental requirements.
Wider Implications for the Region
This initiative signifies a leap toward sustainable industrialization in Batam, positioning the island as a Southeast Asian pioneer in waste oil re-refining. For regional neighbors like Singapore, it opens doors to greener import options and deeper economic collaboration with Batam in the environmental sector.
The proposed waste oil recycling investment from South Korea reflects growing international trust in Batam’s industrial ecosystem. With full regulatory support, proven infrastructure, and a green-forward agenda, the project could redefine Batam’s role in sustainable manufacturing—benefiting not only Indonesians but also regional partners like Singapore.
Sources: Kabarbatam.com (2025) , Batam Pos (2025)
Keywords: Batam Investment, Waste Machinery Oil, South Korean Investor, Kim Junghyeon, BP Batam Support, Recycled Oil Industry
