Minister opens new port in Batam

Minister opens new port in Batam

BATAM, Riau: Minister of Transportation Agum Gumelar
inaugurated the new Batam Center Point International Port, asking
its operators to ensure the port served as a welcoming gate into
Indonesia.

"A trivial matter that could serve as a yardstick is fragrant
and clean toilets at the port," he said.

The port is off-limits to motorcycle taxis and unregistered
taxis.

The new port, which replaces the Batu Ampar Port, is a joint
venture between the Batam Authority Board and PT Synergy Tarada,
and was opened with an investment of Rp 76 billion (US$9
million).

The port features full air-conditioning, escalators and a vast
parking lot.

Agum urged Batam to boost its annual tourist arrivals, which
currently stand at 1.3 million visitors, second after Bali, by
providing good services.--JP