AHY Hopes Batam Will Continue Transformation Into Global Economic Gateway at Lunar New Year Celebration

Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) expressed hope that Batam will continue its transformation as a regional and global economic gateway.

AHY conveyed these aspirations while attending the Lunar New Year 2577 celebration held at Swiss-Belhotel Harbour Bay, Batuampar, Batam, on Monday evening (16/2/2026).

In his address, AHY assessed that Batam holds a strategic position and industrial strength not possessed by many other regions.

“The manufacturing and technology industries that continue to be developed in Batam represent a tremendous strength,” said AHY.

According to him, the contributions of the business community, including the Chinese-Indonesian community, have had a major impact on economic growth and job creation.

“Many businesses have grown and opened up employment opportunities — we must safeguard this together,” he said.

AHY expressed hope that under the leadership of Batam’s Mayor and Deputy Mayor, development can continue to be directed in line with Batam’s original design as a strategic economic zone.

“May Batam truly continue its transformation in accordance with its original design purpose — to become an economic gateway to the Southeast Asian region, and indeed the world economy,” he said.

He also touched on the importance of maintaining stability and social harmony amid global dynamics full of uncertainty.

Amidst these challenges, AHY expressed optimism that Batam is capable of growing ever more advanced and modern without losing its distinctive character.

“A peaceful Batam, a harmonious Batam, an advanced Batam for all,” he concluded.

At the event, AHY was accompanied by Minister of Transmigration Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanegara. The two were greeted with a barongsai (lion dance) performance and participated in the ceremonial Yuu Sheng procession alongside invited guests.