Batam’s Transformation: Special Economic Zones as a National Growth Pillar

Jakarta, INTI - Batam City is increasingly solidifying its position as one of Indonesia’s most important economic hubs. Through the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Batam is becoming the driving force behind economic transformation that is expected to make a significant contribution to national growth. SEZs are not only a means of attracting investment but also a tool to create sustainable and equitable economic benefits for all of society.

On Monday (26/08), Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto visited Batam, where he reaffirmed the importance of SEZs in the national economic strategy. Minister Airlangga also inaugurated Alexander Zulkarnain as a Member of BP Batam’s Administrative and Financial Division, replacing Wahjoe Triwidijo Koentjoro. In his speech, Airlangga emphasized that this change is part of the effort to refresh and strengthen BP Batam’s performance.

“With the inclusion of Mr. Alexander Zulkarnain in BP Batam, I hope he can bring new energy and accelerate the development of this area. I also extend my gratitude to Mr. Wahjoe Triwidijo Koentjoro for his extraordinary service over the years. May his service become a source of blessings for him and his family,” said Airlangga.

Batam’s Strength as a Strategic Zone

The Batam area has its own uniqueness as a free trade zone and one of the most strategic SEZs in Indonesia. Minister Airlangga emphasized that no other province in Indonesia has facilities as comprehensive as Batam, making it a highly attractive location for investors. “Batam has already become a free trade zone and SEZ, giving it a competitive advantage over other regions. BP Batam must continue to improve its performance to capitalize on this vast potential,” said Airlangga.

The government views Batam as key to the national economic growth strategy. With SEZ facilities, Batam is expected to become a center for innovation and technology that will attract investments from various sectors. The presence of SEZs in Batam also allows for job creation and improved quality of life for local residents.

Synergy and Collaboration for Sustainable Growth

To address global challenges such as geopolitical tensions and climate change, Airlangga emphasized the importance of synergy between BP Batam, the Batam City Government, the Riau Islands Provincial Government, and the Central Government. This collaboration is needed to ensure that Batam can seize existing opportunities, particularly in attracting investment amid the challenging global economic conditions.

Minister Airlangga also appreciated the increase in investment in Batam over the past five years, which is partly due to government support through SEZ development. “We will continue this support because we believe Batam has great potential to be a role model in SEZ management and investment attraction,” he explained.

The government is also committed to continuously improving Batam’s infrastructure, such as airports and ports, to compete at the international level. The development of Rempang Island as an Eco-City is also one of the priorities, with the hope that this area can become an example of sustainable and environmentally friendly development in the future.

Batam’s Future and the Role of SEZs

Through SEZs, Batam is expected to become a major pillar in the government’s efforts to strengthen national economic growth. Minister Airlangga concluded his working visit with the hope that SEZ development in Batam will continue smoothly and have a broad positive impact. “We must continue to strive for Batam to become a center of investment and innovation capable of competing globally. With hard work and good synergy, we can achieve this,” Airlangga concluded.