Jakarta. BP Batam, the city’s development body, recently earned the best audit grade from the national Supreme Audit Agency (BPK) for their 2023 financial report.

This means that Batam has received the so-called “unqualified opinion” (WTP) status --the highest audit grade from BPK-- eight times in a row since 2017. According to BPK member Ahmadi Noor Supit, the WTP grade already aligns with the state financial audit standards. 

“The status shows that BP Batam is committed to managing the state money in an accountable manner,” Ahmadi was quoted as saying in a recent press statement.

Ahmadi also praised BP Batam’s best audit grade streak. The WTP status proves an agency’s transparency and accountability in their financial reports. Any government body is responsible for a sound management of the government’s budget to develop the country. Ahmadi added: “We would like to thank BP Batam for their cooperation during the process. Congratulations.”

BP Batam’s head Muhammad Rudi said that his agency vowed to carry out the recommendations given by the BPK during the audit. 

“We are committed to do our best in managing the state finances and ensure easier issuance of business permits,” Rudi said. 

“We ask for BPK’s guidance in carrying out those recommendations so there will be no issues related to the budget.”

BP Batam also pledged to do its best to attract investments, which could significantly contribute to the region’s economic growth.