Amid Scrutiny, Batam Immigration Introduces Service for Ailing Patients

Amid scrutiny over alleged illegal levies, the Batam Class I Special Immigration Office continues to innovate in public services through the ImmiCare programme, a proactive service targeted at the public, particularly patients undergoing treatment in hospitals. The ImmiCare programme allows immigration officers to visit the applicant’s location directly to conduct biometric data recording and document verification. This service provides a solution for patients who are unable to come to the immigration office, especially those needing urgent travel documents for medical purposes abroad. In its implementation, service requests are submitted through hospitals that have partnered with immigration authorities. The hospital issues an official request letter, which is then followed up by on-duty officers available 24 hours a day. Once all requirements are met, officers schedule a visit to the hospital to perform the biometric recording process and direct interviews with the applicant. Acting Head of the Batam Immigration Office, Martson H. Sihaloho, affirmed that the presence of the ImmiCare service represents the institution’s commitment to delivering inclusive and responsive services. “Through ImmiCare, we aim to ensure that every citizen receives their right to immigration services, including those who are ill and unable to come to the office. This is a humane, needs-oriented proactive service,” he stated on Monday (6/4/2026). He added that the service also serves as a concrete step to expedite the issuance of travel documents for patients requiring further medical treatment abroad. So far, ImmiCare has received positive responses from hospitals and the public. The programme is deemed very helpful as passport processing can be done without moving the patient, thus minimising risks to their health condition. Moving forward, Batam Immigration is committed to continuously developing the ImmiCare service as part of efforts to provide adaptive, responsive, and humane public services. On the other hand, internal oversight will also be strengthened to maintain service integrity amid emerging issues. This service is designed as an integrated humane service, so the public is not burdened with convoluted procedures during emergencies. The initial phase of the programme is focused on three industrial areas, namely Batamindo, Panbil, and Nongsa/Kabil.