BATAMCLICK.COM: – Batam Centre International Ferry Terminal was bustling with foreign tourists on Saturday (Aug. 8, 2026), as visitors arrived in Batam to spend their weekend in the city.
The steady flow of international passengers made the terminal noticeably busier. Batam has long been an easy getaway for visitors from neighboring countries, especially Singapore and Malaysia, thanks to its convenient international connections.
Ardiwinata, head of Batam’s Culture and Tourism Agency, said the number of foreign tourists visiting the city tends to pick up during weekends.
“We’ve seen quite a lot of activity from foreign tourists in Batam, especially on weekends. That’s certainly a positive sign for Batam’s tourism sector,” Ardiwinata said.
But for the Batam administration, attracting visitors is not just about getting people through the city. The goal is to encourage them to stay longer and experience more of what Batam has to offer.
“We hope visitors don’t just come to Batam and leave. We want them to enjoy the different destinations and activities available across the city,” he said.
Plenty to See and Do in Batam
Visitors do not have to stick to Batam’s city center. There are plenty of things to see and do, depending on what they are looking for.
They can explore the city’s coastal and marine attractions, try local food, go shopping, or visit religious, historical and cultural sites. Batam also offers sports tourism, MICE events, agro-tourism, ecotourism and other special-interest activities.
The growing number of visitors also creates opportunities for local businesses. Tourists who stay overnight, for example, support hotels as well as restaurants, transportation services, shopping centers, tourist attractions and small businesses.
That is why the local government continues to promote Batam while adding more events and activities for visitors to enjoy.
“We continue to promote Batam and work closely with tourism stakeholders. We’re also encouraging more events and destinations so visitors have more options during their stay,” Ardiwinata said.
It’s About More Than a Busy Ferry Terminal
A busy Batam Centre Ferry Terminal has become a familiar sight on weekends. But the bigger challenge is turning those arrivals into longer stays.
The longer tourists stay in Batam, the more places they can explore and the more local businesses can benefit from their spending.
With direct connections to neighboring countries and a wide range of attractions, Batam has plenty going for it as a tourist destination. The key now is to make the experience memorable enough for visitors to want to come back.(bos)
