Batam City Government launches “Gebyar UMKM 2025” to strengthen local entrepreneurship and global competitiveness through innovation and collaboration.
Batam City Government (Pemko Batam) is stepping up efforts to empower local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through digital transformation and easier access to capital. The initiative took center stage at the Gebyar UMKM Batam 2025 event, held at Dataran Engku Putri from November 5 to 9, showcasing over 100 MSMEs across multiple sectors.
Batam’s Vision: MSMEs “Leveling Up”
Opening the event, Mayor Amsakar Achmad reaffirmed Batam’s commitment to helping small businesses “move up the class” and compete regionally and globally. “Our shared goal is for Batam’s MSMEs not just to survive but to thrive,” said Amsakar. “Through innovation and inclusive financing, we want them to be globally competitive.”
The Gebyar UMKM festival, attended by hundreds of entrepreneurs, features exhibitions, workshops, and awards to celebrate the creativity and resilience of Batam’s business community.
Zero-Interest Capital for Growth
Amsakar highlighted one of the government’s flagship policies, a zero-interest working capital program providing up to Rp20 million (about S$1,600) per business. The initiative aims to boost production capacity and financial independence among local entrepreneurs.
“Financial support is not just about giving funds,” he said. “It’s part of a long-term strategy for MSMEs to grow sustainably and become self-reliant.”
Tackling Five Key MSME Challenges
To help local enterprises scale effectively, Pemko Batam has identified five persistent barriers:
- Poor business governance
- Limited access to capital
- Weak product packaging
- Insufficient branding
- Inconsistent marketing
To address these, the government is expanding training, mentorship, and digital marketing programs integrated with online commerce platforms. These efforts aim to modernize MSME operations while strengthening Batam’s presence in Indonesia’s fast-growing digital economy.
From Local Bazaars to Shopping Malls
Mayor Amsakar proudly noted that Batam-made products have begun reaching national retail chains and shopping malls — a milestone signaling quality improvement and rising consumer confidence. “This proves our MSMEs can meet modern market standards,” he said. “Now, we need to maintain that entrepreneurial spirit — creative, tech-savvy, and export-ready.”
Building an Ecosystem of Collaboration
Salim, Head of Batam’s MSME Department, emphasized that Gebyar UMKM also serves as a platform to inspire students and young innovators. The event features a workshop series involving 150 students from local high schools and universities, where participants learn directly from artisans through activities such as batik-making and eco-printing.
“This is a space for innovation and entrepreneurship,” said Salim. “We’re fostering collaboration between education, business, and government to create stronger, more innovative MSMEs for the digital era.”
Recognizing Innovation and Excellence
The festival will conclude with the UMKM Awards on November 8, honoring three categories: Resilient MSME, Innovative MSME, and Top Digital MSME. The awards serve as the city’s highest recognition for excellence and creativity in entrepreneurship.
Through initiatives like Gebyar UMKM 2025, Batam is setting an example of how local governments can empower small businesses to adapt, digitize, and compete on a global stage. By combining inclusive financing, education, and innovation, Batam’s MSME ecosystem is evolving into a model of sustainable, tech-driven entrepreneurship in Indonesia’s border economy.
Sources: Posmetro Batam (2025) , Riaukepri.com (2025)
Keywords: Batam MSME Program, Digital Transformation, Zero-Interest Capital, Entrepreneurship Development, Gebyar UMKM 2025
