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