The Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs and Singapore's Economic Development Board (EDB) convened the 17th Co-Chairs Meeting of the Working Group on Batam-Bintan-Karimun (BBK) and Other SEZs in Indonesia on April 14, 2025, in Jakarta. This annual forum strengthens strategic collaboration in economic zone development and investment promotion across the BBK region.

The meeting was led by Deputy Coordinating Minister for Industry, Manpower, and Tourism, M. Rudy Salahuddin, and EDB Chairman Mr. Png Cheong Boon. Discussions included policy progress in the BBK area, SEZ support, digital transformation, and mobility and connectivity between BBK and Singapore.

BBK Working Group Focuses on Strategic Policy and Investment

Since the January 2024 meeting, BBK cooperation has focused on four core clusters: business environment, investment promotion, industry sectors, and capacity development. According to Deputy Rudy, the working group remains essential in responding to rising global uncertainties.

Regulatory Updates Enhance BBK Investment Environment

The Indonesian government has introduced several key regulations. These include Presidential Regulation No. 1 of 2024 on the BBK Development Master Plan, Coordinating Minister Regulation No. 10 of 2024 on Detailed Planning Guidelines, and Presidential Regulation No. 21 of 2025 on Land Provision in Batam.

“These regulations represent the Indonesian Government’s commitment to creating a more competitive and integrated investment ecosystem in the BBK region,” said Deputy Rudy.

USD4.6 Billion in BBK Investment Recorded in 2024

BBK areas have seen significant investment growth. In 2024, Batam recorded USD3.26 billion, Karimun USD1.29 billion, and Bintan USD118.3 million. There are 180 priority projects across sectors such as logistics, industry, tourism, technology, human capital, and infrastructure.

BBK is home to five Special Economic Zones, including Nongsa SEZ, which is under development as a digital and data hub. Supporting infrastructure includes data centers, water processing facilities, and expansion areas.

“We see great potential in Nongsa as a key node for the digital ecosystem in the region. Regulatory expansion and reinforcement are critical to attracting investment,” said Chairman Png Cheong Boon.

Mobility and Infrastructure Development Support Regional Connectivity

Indonesia has resolved visa issues for ASEAN business players and introduced a Multiple Entry Visa scheme to improve cross-border business travel. These steps are aligned with the increasing volume of business visits.

BP Batam is also preparing for the full development of Batu Ampar Port as an international transshipment hub. Collaboration with global port operators from Singapore is set to be explored in 2025.

Both sides emphasized the need to sustain cooperation and strengthen institutional frameworks to address global challenges, including protectionism and geopolitical pressures on supply chains. Deputy Rudy noted the momentum from institutional restructuring in Indonesia could reinforce bilateral synergy and future collaboration.

PHOTO: EKON.GO.ID

This article was created with AI assistance.