Suspected Extortion at Batam Port, Kepri Ombudsman Strengthens Oversight
Batam (ANTARA) - The Ombudsman of the Republic of Indonesia Representative for Riau Islands (Kepri) is strengthening oversight of public services following allegations of illegal levies and intimidation against foreign tourists at Batam Center Port in Batam City.
Head of the Kepri Ombudsman Representative, Lagat Siadari, emphasised that the incident serves as an “alarm” for enhancing control functions, particularly at international crossing points that represent the face of Indonesia.
“This incident confirms that we need to continuously improve oversight. Without it, the potential for deviations by officials will be wide open. These deviations by rogue elements are indeed a spectre, so there needs to be enrichment of ethics for all officials so they remember their duties and responsibilities,” he stated in a comment received in Batam on Sunday.
He noted that weak oversight could open doors to deviant practices by rogue officials in the field. The Kepri Ombudsman has coordinated with the Special Class I Immigration Office at TPI Batam to follow up on the matter.
From the communication results, the immigration side confirmed the alleged practices and is currently conducting an internal investigation by the Ministry of Immigration Inspectorate.
“It is very important to give punishment to violators, but on the other hand, there also needs to be recognition for performing employees who maintain integrity,” he said.
The Kepri Ombudsman records that objectively, the face of immigration services in Batam has undergone a significant positive transformation compared to five years ago.
Lagat sees a strong willingness from the Immigration side to continue improving service quality.
“This case is hoped to become a momentum to sweep away remaining old practices and accelerate the realisation of a truly clean bureaucratic area,” he said.
The Kepri Ombudsman also invites the public to actively report if they find deviant practices in public services.
“The role of the public is very significant in correcting and evaluating public services. Do not be afraid to complain if you find deviations. The courage of citizens will make improvements more targeted while providing shock therapy for naughty employees,” he concluded.