Muhammad Rudi, the Head of BP Batam, is directing significant attention towards accelerating investment across various sectors, particularly in the digital industry. Recognizing the substantial need for digital technology adoption in Indonesia, Rudi emphasizes the necessity for adequate infrastructure to hasten digital transformation in Batam. The government, through BP Batam, is endorsing the development of a data center in the Nongsa Special Economic Zone (SEZ). KEK Nongsa aims to provide investment flexibility in the digital industry, fostering opportunities and enhancing the investment climate in Batam to attract external investors. In 2024, Rudi hopes KEK Nongsa will realize the investment targets set by the central government. The government aims for the SEZ to attract investments totaling IDR 16 trillion, creating job opportunities for 16,500 workers. The focus of development is on IT-digital-based activities and tourism. Rudi urges all relevant agencies to commit to the successful implementation of these plans for Batam's economic progress in 2024.
Batam, designated with two SEZs by Presidential Regulations No. 67 and No. 68 of 2021, includes the Nongsa Digital Park. The primary objectives of SEZ development are to stimulate economic growth, engage in development participation, and enhance national competitiveness. Batam's strategic location near Singapore and its position on busy global shipping routes are key factors influencing investment growth in the region, particularly in the existing SEZs. Currently, Nongsa Digital Park (NDP) is concentrating on two main areas: vocational education partnerships with foreign and domestic institutions and completing the construction of a data center. PT Tamarin, the manager of KEK Nongsa, is committed to completing the data center construction to establish Batam as a digital hub in Indonesia. "We want high connectivity in Batam for its technology sector, making it a digital bridge in Indonesia," affirms Mike Wiluan, Director of PT Tamarin. The commitment to developing the data center underscores the ambition to elevate Batam's status in the digital realm and strengthen its technological infrastructure.
