Batam Mayor urges citizens to support city development through 15 vital government programs
Mayor Amsakar Achmad has outlined 15 key government programs designed to transform Batam into a more advanced and prosperous city. He called on citizens to stay united and collaborative as the city pursues major public service and infrastructure goals.
During the Halalbihalal event on Tuesday night, 13 May 2025, held at Ibnu Sina Hall in Lubuk Baja, Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad, alongside Deputy Mayor Li Claudia Chandra, invited the public to embrace unity and togetherness.
In his speech, Amsakar emphasized that with mutual cooperation (gotong royong) and collaboration, Batam could advance into a more developed and prosperous city. “Let’s maintain unity and togetherness—through collective effort, we can realize a better Batam,” he declared.
Seven Programs Focused on Citizens’ Basic Needs
The mayor presented 15 priority programs, seven of which directly respond to essential community needs. These include:
- Expansion and optimization of clean water services
- Enhanced flood control and drainage solutions
- Free medical treatment for residents with Batam ID
- BPJS Ketenagakerjaan coverage for vulnerable workers
- Interest-free loans up to Rp 20 million (≈ SGD 1,560) for micro and small enterprises
- Free school uniforms for new public elementary and junior high school students
- Assistance for the elderly and training for workers in the creative industry
Long-Term Developmental and Structural Programs
The remaining eight programs target wider structural and future-oriented development goals:
- University scholarships for students from hinterland areas and underprivileged backgrounds
- Integrated public transport development (BRT and LRT systems)
- Accelerated construction of the city’s ring road
- Establishment of a citywide cultural center for all ethnic communities
- Supply chain management for essential goods
- Eco-friendly waste management and technology implementation
- Construction of new school buildings and classrooms
- Promotion of investment and expansion of Batam’s MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) sector
Amsakar’s approach balances infrastructure expansion with human development and environmental awareness. The city’s plan for cultural preservation, support for SMEs, and educational investment underscores its commitment to inclusive progress.
Sustainability is addressed through smarter staple goods logistics and the adoption of green technology for waste processing, reducing environmental strain while creating a cleaner Batam.
Strengthening Regional Identity and Economy
The emphasis on cultural integration through the proposed cultural center is designed to fortify unity in Batam’s diverse population. Meanwhile, the government’s backing of MICE infrastructure aims to attract cross-border business and position Batam as a competitive urban economy in Southeast Asia.
Public transport improvements and road development will also enable better regional accessibility and reduce congestion—benefiting both residents and potential investors.
Final Remarks and Hopes for the Future
Amsakar concluded by urging the public to support his administration’s vision and pray for strength and health as he and Deputy Mayor Li Claudia Chandra continue to lead the city. “We pray for health and consistency so we can carry out our mission for Batam,” he said, closing the event with gratitude and resolve.
These 15 programs mark a pivotal phase in Batam’s evolution—from equitable services and education to sustainable urban planning and international investment readiness. As the city mobilizes its resources and unites its citizens, it also sends a strong signal to neighboring countries like Singapore: Batam is rising with vision and purpose, ready for greater cooperation and global relevance.
Sources: Batam News (2025), Berita Batam (2025)
Keywords: Batam Government, Amsakar Achmad, City Programs, Public Infrastructure, Indonesian Development
