Jakarta. Batam needs to spur industrial development to boost its economy, according to Muhammad Rudi, the head of the city’s development agency.

“If our industry continues to grow, this will supercharge Batam’s economy. And our people will be prosperous,” Rudi said when launching the Batam Technology Center - Bays 5 and 6 at Karti Yasa Sarana - Cameron SLB Batu Ampar on Thursday. 

To this end, BP Batam -- alongside the city government -- vowed to provide ease of doing business for investors. “BP Batam and the city government are truly committed to realizing industrial growth, and to attract investments that can absorb Batam’s workforce,” Rudi, who also serves as Batam’s mayor, said.

Batam is aiming to attract investments worth totaling between Rp 50 trillion (about $3 billion) and Rp 55 trillion this year. Rudi said: “Looking at what’s happening on the ground, I’m confident we can achieve that target.” 

“I will keep an eye on things. So if investors ever encounter any problem such as regarding the licensing processes, they can immediately report it to me,” Rudi said.