Batam’s tourism chief lauds island as among ‘alternatives’ for Singaporeans to enjoy activities restricted by the city state
Situated less than an hour’s ferry ride away, the island was a possible destination for Singaporeans looking to indulge in their now-forbidden activity, Batam Tourism Agency head Ardiwinata told Teras Batam, an Indonesian language news portal.
“If the Singaporean government introduces strict policies, their citizens have alternatives to enjoy them, one of which is Batam. As long as it doesn’t violate our regulations, they can choose Batam,” Ardiwinata said on Monday.
He compared the vape ban to previous Singapore regulations that had benefited Batam, such as the closure of public golf courses.
The city state has been shutting down the sprawling greens amid a land crunch, with the last public 18-hole golf course ceasing operations last year. Since then, Batam has become a favourite destination for golfers, according to Ardiwinata.
