…Your Second Opinion Blog…

2 GOLDS FOR KEPRI PROVNCE IS THE CITRA TUBINDO CONTRIBUTION

2008-07-22T01:38:00.000-07:00

The two athletes from Riau Islands (Kepri) Province gate the two gold medals at Weeks of Indonesia National Sport (PON) at Kalimantan East Indonesia last week. Even the National Committee of Indonesia (KONI) of Kepri Province’s target is getting 6 gold medals, but the athletes are only success to bring 2 gold medals only. The two gold medals are getting by the sail athletes of Kepri Island. The coach of sail, Weng Syamsi said, that the success because the boys are practice seriously everyday in Nongsa Marina Point (NMP) sea.

This success can’t separate with the best contribution by Citra Tubindo Public Company. This company allocated their profit for social responsibility and community development. So, the management of Citra Tubindo decision is to practice the boys who living around the sea of Nongsa of Batam Island become sail athletes.

This is the first time for athletes from Kepri Island come down for national competitions. And of cause, this performance make every people of Kepri Island are proud. Just for your information, Kepri Island age now is fourth. So, as the people of Batam Island, I only just can says, congratulation for the sail athletes and special thanks for Mr. Weng Syamsi. I’m proud of you man. (!)

BBC INFORMAL MEETING DISCUSSING BII AT HOT SPOT AREA

2008-07-14T22:46:00.001-07:00

Sunday, July 15, 2008 the Batam Bloger Community (BBC) met to discuss about Batam Intelligence Island (BBI) at Engku Putri hot spot area. The members are sit on the land, no chairs available. The Vice Major of Batam, Ria Saptarika come down and talk with the members.

This is my first time to meet with the BBC. Because, since enjoying the blog two month and half ago, I never meet with the BBC. I just discuss with my “suhu” Ade Adran Syahlan about blog and how to get the money on net.

Actually, this is the delicious meeting with sate dish (all are free). This community is get serious attention by Ria Saptarika with two reason. First, Ria background education is the technical degree. Second, this community is no need the big money for making anything (they’re hobbies). Of course, Ria has more reason. Might possible the reason of politics or others. No body knows.

Generally, I think this community is good and expected can bring society of Batam moving in the future. (!)

GOVERNOR OF RIAU ISLAND PROVINCE VERY DISAPPOINTED TO PLN

2008-07-09T18:58:00.000-07:00

Governor of Riau Island Province Ismeth Abdullah confess very disappointed to PT. PLN (Company of State Electric). Because this company is fail to supply the electricity to the companies and the public. Though too many Governor have asked to the management of PT. PLN to develop new power station.

Of course process acceleration of development annoyed. Actually, said Governor, the management of PT. PLN have to give opportunity to private sector to inculcate invesment for develop new power station. But that solution is again the Indonesian electricity law. Because, the private enterprise not be permitted to become electrics distributor. “We’re very annoyed,” said Ismeth.

This condition make the all staff of Riau Island Province can’t work better. Also can’t to service the investors to improve they productivity and others public activities. So, what the best solution do you have readers. Please send your thinking to the comment. (!)

KEPRI WILL BUILD HIGH QUALITY FIVE STARS LEVEL BUSINESS

2008-07-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

The best given from God for the people of Batam Island and Riau Islands Province residences is the geographic. Because they are live beside the strait periphery in the world, Malaka. Expert chief staff of Board of National Development Planning (Bapenas) oceaninc area, Professor Son Diamar said in his presentation on one day seminar in Tanjungpinang, yesterday.

Don said, today 40% ship cargo transportations are cross the Malaka strait. So, are the Batam people just only sit and justly see? No way! So, the Riau Island Province Government must build the high quality five stars level business. The business is not just selling the fishes only, but more. Because this business goal is to invite the “big fish” come down and want to join with us.

The wife Riau Island Province, Aida Ismeth – she the Indonesian senator too – give the best response. She’s thinking that the idea is feasible and great. But, she said today the allocation loan from the central government Jakarta for Riau Island Province is too small. So she need the more attention from Jakarta. (!)

…Your Second Opinion Blog…: URBANIZATION EXPLOSION, FTZ BATAM EFFECT!

2008-07-06T03:44:00.000-07:00

…Your Second Opinion Blog…: URBANIZATION EXPLOSION, FTZ BATAM EFFECT!

URBANIZATION EXPLOSION, FTZ BATAM EFFECT!

2008-07-05T20:01:00.000-07:00

Saturday, July 5, 2008 the ship transport leaning in Sekupang sea port at 15.00 pm (Batam time). When I’m driving my car crossing the street in front of the Sekupang Sea Port totally stuck. Do you know mean this happen? This is the urbanization explosion in Batam Island. The urban people come down to Batam to find a job. They want to work in many industries in Batam. This is the FTZ Batam effect.

Of cause, this effect depress population problem of Batam seriously. Mayor assistant of Batam, Syamsul Bahrum said in lunch time with me, the booming population in Batam is so high because urbanization. And now, the complicated problems are progressively with existence of baby booming. Not more three years the residents in Batam grow more than 20%. Today, the population of Batam City is 750 thousands people – that the registered people more people not registered as the Batam citizen.

What the industry need exactly? Are the people like the urban? Actually, the industry management just needed the skill people who can do anything to support the productivity. Are the new urban who came down from the transport ship in Sekupang Sea Port have needed skill? I don’t know bro!

SHIPYARD INDUSTRY BOOMING IN BATAM ISLAND

2008-07-04T23:28:00.001-07:00

Yesterday night my friend call to my mobile phone, he said that his friend from Jakarta need the land for shipyard industry about 10 hectares. He said that the investor from Jakarta want to build the shipyard industry in Batam Island. My friend has check the land for shipyard to BIDA (Badan Industrial Development Authority) but the official staff inform him, that no land available any more for shipyard industry in Batam. Except, my friend have to find by him self to the private owner land.

For check and balance, I confirm by my self to the official staff of BIDA yesterday. And I gate the same answer and explanation. Why? The answer is the land in Batam Island had allocated to private companies or to the some one. So, if the investors come to BIDA and ask the land for shipyard industry, the answer is same.

Yes since three or five years ago, the demand of land for shipyard industry in Batam so high. The booming of this industry because Batam Island is very feasible and profitable for this business. This year the big big big money from middle east will come down to Batam Island for same industry, shipyard. For you information, here is I give you the list of shipyard industry operated in Batam.

LIST OF THE SHIPYARD INDUSTRY IN BATAM ISLAND (2006)

No Name of Company Products Investment Product Capacity/year

1 Asl Shipyard Indonesia Tug boat and Tanker US$ 1 juta 7,3 unit
2 Bandar Victory Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 8,5 unit
3 Berger Batam Handal Tug boat and Tanker -- 8,5 unit
4 Jaya Asiatic Shipyard Tug boat US$ 1 juta 12 unit
5 Kunangan Marindo Shipyard Tug boat -- 12 unit
6 LUO Shipyard Tug boat Rp 1,46 miliar 12 unit
7 Naninda Mutiara Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker US$ 500.000,- 8,4 unit
8 Palma Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker Rp 16 miliar 8,4 unit
9 Pan Batam Island Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker Rp 1,6 miliar 10,6 unit
10 Pan United Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker US$ 24 juta 8,6 unit
11 Pandan Bahari Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 8,5 unit
12 Pioneer Offshore Enterprise Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker US$ 10 juta 8,6 unit
13 Tri Karya Alam Tug boat and Tanker -- 8,6 unit
14 Wanamas Puspita Tug boat and Tanker -- 8,6 unit
15 Batam Expresindo Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker Rp 4 miliar 8,5 unit
16 Tunas Karya Bahari Tug boat and Tanker Rp 800 juta 8,5 unit
17 Marinatama Gemanusa Tug boat and Tanker Rp 993 juta 8,4 unit
18 Nongsa Jaya Buana Tug boat and Tanker Rp 3,8 miliar 8,3 unit
19 Batamec Tug boat and Tanker Rp 314, 8 miliar 8,6 unit
20 Batam Bahari Khatulistiwa Tug boat and Tanker
21 Lot & Lot Constructio Indonesia Tug boat and Tanker Rp 10,53 miliar 8,6 unit
22 Hyandai Citra Tug boat and Tanker US$ 400.000,- 8,6 unit
23 Tirta Jaya Hati Tug boat Rp 1 miliar 11 unit
24 Esprit Engineering Tug boat and Tanker US$ 100.000,- 7,4 unit
25 Batamas Jala Nusantara Tug boat and Tanker Rp 69,1 miliar 7,5 unit
26 Batam Sentralindo Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,4 unit
27 Plus Indonesia Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,2 unit
28 Riau Panjaya Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,3 unit
30 Glory Utama Industri Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,3 unit
31 Sentosa Mulia Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,3 unit
32 Viking Engineering Batam Tongkang, Tug Boat -- 7,6 unit
33 Golf Pasifik Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,6 unit
34 Kim Seal Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
35 More Plan Private Limited Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,5 unit
36 Cahaya Samudera Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker Rp 1 miliar 6,5 unit
37 Ninda Pratama Verisindo Tug boat and Tanker Rp 4,3 miliar 7,6 unit
38 Karya Teknik Utama Tongkang, Tug Boat Rp 4 miliar 7,5 unit
39 Seloko Batam Shipyard Tug boat Rp 5,6 miliar 11 unit
40 Sumber Teknik Tug boat and Tanker Rp 1,2 miliar 7,6 unit
41 Pratama Pacifik Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,6 unit
42 Batam Shipbuilder Repair Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,6 unit
43 Basindo Utama Raya Tug boat and Tanker Rp 1 miliar 7,5 unit
44 Chooper Mechanical Oilfeld Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
45 Hydrill Indonesia Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
46 Nexus Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,5 unit
47 Sekip Hilir Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
48 Beetel Equipment Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
49 Mc. Connel Dravel Tug boat and Tanker -- 7,5 unit
50 Idros Service Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
51 Ensure Engineering Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
52 Sintai Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
53 Karya Alam Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
54 Bahtera Mulia Handalan Tug boat and Tanker Rp 10 miliar 6,4 unit
55 Global Indo Asia Pacific Tug boat and Tanker -- 6,4 unit
56 Erindo Marine Tug boat and Tanker Rp 700 juta 14,8 unit
57 Bumi Laut Perkasa Tug boat and Tanker Rp 9 miliar 30,5 unit
58 Sumber Sarana Elektrindo Tug boat and Tanker Rp 1,5 miliar 10,6 unit
59 Batam Marine Engineering Tug boat Rp 750 juta 8,6 unit
60 Sumatera Maju Jaya Tug boat and Tanker -- 12,6 unit
61 Sinbat Precast Teknindo Tug boat and Tanker -- 14,6 unit
62 Natuna Indah Tug boat and Tanker Rp 2,2 miliar 100 unit
63 Pasific Composites Uama Ship and Fibership Rp 1,3 miliar 12,6 unit
64 Selecta Bersama Tug boat and Tanker Rp 6,5 miliar 6,10 unit
64 Sumber Samudera Makmur Tug boat and Tanker Rp 1,5 miliar 18,24 unit
65 Marcopollo Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker Rp 3,2 miliar 12,18 unit
66 Kian Guan Sakti Tug boat and Tanker Rp 5,7 miliar --
67 Bersama Citra Makmur Repair and Tug boat and Tanker Rp 203 juta
68 Putera Perkasa Harapan Jaya Tug boat and Tanker Rp 6,9 miliar 8,20 unit
69 Ballast Nedom South East Asia Tug boat and Tanker US$1,5 juta 10,8 unit
70 Pensumba Batam Shipyard Tug boat and Tanker Rp 2,5 miliar 12,6 unit. (!)

BATAM BLACK OUT AGAIN AND AGAIN!!!

2008-07-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

Friday, July 4, 2008 electricity in Batam Island black out again. Almost five hours begin 16.30 to 20.30 pm (Batam time) PT. Pelayanan Listrik Negara (PLN) Batam – the power supply – hole of Batam Island black out. Without announcement!!! So, if you want to invest your money in Batam Island, you have to ready to “head to head” with black out for a hole day. Of course, without announcement like this happen.

You can imagine how much the business loses for the five hours black out. Especially, are the small and medium business enterprises. They lose not just a time for finishing the orders but losing the orders too. And the other loses are the electricity are claim up. And the dangerous more are the PT. PLN Batam act is danger for the patients in the hospital. Especially, the patients who they life are supported by the machines.

That’s not just a first time, that’s too many time happening in Batam. Last month, black out is everyday in Batam. You can find out in my report in this blog. Even the Minister of Energy and Resources Purnomo Yusgiantoro has gives the personal guaranty for gas supply to Batam. But, not more than one month the black out happen again. So, do you can believe the Indonesian Government officials guaranty?

When, the black out still going on, the mobile phone’s public relation of PT. PLN Batam, Ade Sulistiani off always. I don’t know is this the PT. PLN Batam strategy or they want to run away from the responsible to public complain. Until now, as the Batam citizen I never know the PT. PLN Batam report of finance or other. So, as the customer, our position is must be ready to life in the dark. Thank for your “best” service PT. PLN Batam!!!

BATAM FREE TRADE ZONE WITHOUT FREE TAX

2008-07-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

What advantages do you thinking about Batam Free Trade Zone? Free of tax? Wrong! Today, three commodities are objected of tax by the Indonesian President decision, are cars, alcohol drinking water and electronics product. This law known as PP (Peraturan Pemerintah) Number 63. The PP 63 until now still going on.

As I wrote in this blog before, that the local government and Chief Board of Batam Zone has met with the Indonesian President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono for talk and discuss about PP 63 cancellation. That meeting is following with the two ministers serious discussion between Sri Mulyani (Economic Minister) and Mari Elka Pangestu (Trading Minister). Together focusing to change the PP 63 with the new friendly regulation for the foreign investor.

But, two days ago, my friend Suyono Saputra (journalist of Bisnis Indonesia Economic Daily) interview Muhammad Lutfi (The Chief of Coordinating Investing Board) in Batam Island. Lutfi said to him, that Indonesian Government don’t want to cancel the PP 63. Because no contradicting between PP 63 with the Batam FTZ law. But, he promised that Indonesian Government will release the friendly role of PP 63. What’s that? No one knows today. (!)

KNPI OF KEPRI SUPPLY THE WALDING WORKER FOR SHIPYARD INDUSTRY

2008-07-01T23:40:00.000-07:00

Indonesian National Youth Committee (KNPI) of Riau Island Province (Kepri) had supply the welders to the Citra Tubindo, Tbk. This program had begun more than 3 months ago. Now, this Indonesian young committee are preparing to supply thousands workers for the new shipyard industry in Batam.

Today, new shipyard industry from Dubai will begin the investment in Batam Island. This new industry is need 5.000 workers. The other company, Seipem, today begin the investment in Karimun Island. Also, this company is need 9.000 workers. Than, thousands workers need in Batam Island and Karimun Island now. Because the booming demand of shipyard and it services now is very fantastic.

The booming effect is too difficult now to find the feasible land in Batam Island for build the shipyard industry. My friend in Batam Industrial Development Authority (BIDA) said to me, too many foreign investors come down to Batam Island just for asking the land. But, BIDA can’t approve anymore. Because the feasible land for shipyard industry in Batam Island had allocated for the investors. So, the BIDA today is focusing their foreign investment to the special industry. That is the industry less water and wide land.

Back to KNPI of Kepri, his chief Berto Izaak Doko said to me, that he committed to continue his program and he thank to the company who had support. God bless for KNPI of Kepri. (!)

TUG BOAT HUNTERS INVESTIGATING BATAM

2008-06-26T20:31:00.001-07:00

Many tug boat hunters are investigating Batam Island. Because, as the bigger located of shipyard industry in Indonesia, in Batam Island produced too many shipyard and tug boat. The other reason, because Batam Island beside the busy strait, Malaka. That why, they are watching Batam Island always.

The hunters are making the networking here. So, they can get the information as soon as possible. The networking will inform them if tug boat available in Batam Island or some owner will sell the tug boat. The hunters will come down to Batam Island soon and make the lobbying for the transaction.

Indeed, not every business meeting closing by deal. Some of the meeting is just wasting of time. My friend from Tiban of Batam as the person of their networking said to me, he had too many get the business meeting talking about the tug boat, but not closing by the deal. But, as the person of the networking, he hit always the tug boat.

My friend said again, the tug boat demands are growing up everyday. The problem is difficult to find the tug boat to sell now. So, do you wanna help my friend please? (!)

WELCOME, THE “BIDA” REPLACEMENT BODY

2008-06-22T02:39:00.000-07:00

The local government of Riau Island Province to day preparing to realize the investment law, we call FTZ and Free Port law. Inside, will build the new authority body. To day, in Batam Island, we have the Batam Industrial Development Authority (BIDA). Next, BIDA will change the name. The new name is Development Zone Body.

As we know, BIDA had build Batam Island after 37 years. Starting from the jungle, until more 1 thousands of foreign investment company are existing in Batam Island today. Also, more than US$ 5 billions foreign investments are investing. So, if we talk about the development of industrial and economy in Batam Island we can’t forget BIDA.

According to the replacement of BIDA with new body, we can’t talk about the foreign investor trust. After years they making deals with the BIDA officers, they can’t to “transfer” the trust to the others. That why, replacement of BIDA position to the new body is a complex matter. Event local government had discussed about making the new investment body for Karimun and Bintan Island has done, but not for Batam Island.

But, we’re belief that next year this serious matter will be done. May God bless us. (!)

SHIPYARD INDUSTRY OVER ORDER FOR 2009

2008-06-19T02:32:00.000-07:00

Shipyard industry orders are booming in Batam Island this year. More than 40 shipyard companies are overload. They can’t take order any more for 2009. It’s happen every year in shipyard industry in Batam Island. The Head of Industrial and Trading of Riau Island Province Jon Arizal, said to me.

That the reason, why big foreign investors are come down to Batam Island to invest they money. The new one is the investor from Dubai, name of flag company is Dubai Dray
Dock. They will build the company beside the Panbill seashore of Batam Island. The investor will spend their money US$ 500 millions.

Actually, foreign investors not just will invest their money in Batam Island this year. They also bore through to Karimun Island of Riau Islands Province too. Because the seashore there very feasible to build the dock. One “big fish” begin to build the dock is Seipem, the investor from Italy. This company will recruit more than 3.000 workers and had advertised in the local papers. (!)

THE TWO MESSANGERS MISSION

2008-06-17T21:38:00.000-07:00

As the “number one” leader of FTZ (Free Trade Zone) and Free Port project in Batam Island – also Bintan and Karimun Islands – Ismeth Abdullah sent his two messengers to Jakarta, Jon Arizal – the Head of Industrial and Trade of Riau Island Province – and Taufik – the Head of Investment of Riau Island Province.

They mission is met the Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhono. They have to talk the President, that FTZ and Free Port project no need the older tax regulation – PP (Peraturan Pemerintah) Number 63, 2003. Because, PP 63, 2003 “assume a form” as the “monster” for the investors and business environment in Batam Island. The “monster” regulated the tax for import the car, cigarette and the electronic product.

The two messengers had done their mission. The President agreed with the Governor Ismeth’s massages. Now, President preparing to launch the free tax regulations for Batam Island. Free tax is once of the government incentives to make the investment environment in Batam Island are better for the investor. But, the messenger didn’t know, when President will announce the replacement. (!)

PT. PLN BATAM IS THE LIER COMPANY

2008-06-12T10:04:00.000-07:00

After promised to the public of Batam Island, no black out electricity on 2008, July, management of PT. PLN (Pelayanan Listrik Negara) Batam – the electricity power company belong to the government – lie. Management just price to they promise not more than one week. After one week, the electricity in the houses in Batam Island, go out any more.

The most disappointed is when PT. PLN Batam black out again in Thursday, June 12, 2008 on 10.25 pm Batam Time. In that time, the “foot ball maniac’s” are waiting for watching the Euro 2008 Competition, between Germany versus Croasia. You know, this two teams are my favorite. But, I’m gambling for Germany.

Let’s back to the PT. PLN Batam issue. This company is too close and very confident and most protected by the employee. Especially, to giving the data of production and something like that. I’ve bad experience. In Thursday, 29 May, 2008, I’ve call Sodik, the PT. PLN Batam employee, he is job for giving the data and information to the journalist and public. I ask him the data of production of PT. PLN Batam. But, the answer is, can not. I’ve to follow the internal difficult regulation. Finally, I’m fail.

So, many questions mark appear in my brain. What happen in the management of PT. PLN Batam. Is the serious “problem” of financial or corruptions? As the public company, this company is too close. I don’t know what the management explanations. But, I want to give you little important information about this company.

Last week, the Head of Exploration and Energy of Riau Island Province Mr. Hamid Rizal said to me and other journalist in Batam Beach Resort (BBR) Hotel of Tanjunginang about the electricity problem in Riau Island – including Batam Island. Rizal said, the Governor of Riau Island Province Mr. Ismeth Abdullah disappointed to the management of PT. PLN Batam. Because the management of PT. PLN Batam is only give the “empty promise” to the public. One of the promised is about the PLTU (Pembangkit Listrik Tenaga Uap) Tanjung Kasam Batam – the steam power electricity. This project is more than 4 years already, but until now not running smoothly.

Besides the management too many time said to the governor that the electricity problem will solved if the Tanjung Kasam project is done. But, the project no progress anything. That why the Governor have ask to the President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to canceling the contract of Tanjung Kasam, and release the new bidding announcement again. The Governor thought the Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and Free Port law will fail and can’t invite the foreign investor to Batam Island if the Management can’t give the best solution of electricity.

Last month, all the foreign investor in Batam Island and entrepreneurs are complaint to the local government about the electricity supply. Of cause, this is not good advertisement for the FTZ and Free Port of Batam Island program. As a journalist, I wish to advise you all, to do not believe the Indonesian government’s company – like PT. PLN Batam. Better you looking for the second opinion before you invest your money in Indonesia. Especially, investing in Batam Island. Many questions you have to answer first. Trust me. (!)

OUR TARGET FOREIGN INVESTING IS US$ 1 MILLION PER YEAR !

2008-06-09T20:11:00.000-07:00

The Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and Free Port of Batam Island – also Bintan and Karimun Islands – are managed by the Zones Board. In the board sit more than six people who responsible to every sector. Like who responsible on tax, custom, immigration, security in sea, land and industrial park and more.

This Zone Board is difference with existing regulators. The board is focusing to FTZ and Free Port management, including inviting the foreign investment. The board will change the member in every five year.

The Head of Industrial and Trade of Riau Island Province Jon Arizal in coffee morning with me yesterday, he said, that every year the board targeting in realized foreign investing is US$ 1 million. Today, more than US$ 1.5 million foreign investing has permission to invest. It’s a matter of time, the money will “landing” in Batam Island.

Arizal added again, the foreign investor more interesting to invest their money in shipyard industry and electronic sectors. Because, two sectors above are still more profitable. (!)

OUR SEA IS NOT THE PLACE TO THROW YOUR RUBBISH !

2008-06-08T16:27:00.000-07:00

The sea in Riau Island Province is more than 90 percent of the region. Actually, this is the best given by God to us. Because too many potential available there, not just the fishes. But, many ships who pass on our sea throw their rubbish like the used oil. Of cause, this action is the criminal and again the international law. This is not happen in one time, but more and more.

Like in Thursday, May 5, 2008 when I’ve cross away by the traditional ship from Batam Island to Langkanak Island – you can see the beautiful Singapore from this island – I’ve seen to many used oil throwing to the sea. My hand was black with oil when I dip to the sea. As the citizen of Batam Island, I angry with this happen. Our sea is not the big place to throwing your rubbish sir !

As the freedom country, actually we must obedient to the international law and respect to other country authority. Event no eyes sea police seen, but we trust the eye God will see. And together we can keep the sea in the world are clean and the sea habitat can live better. I think, every one of us agrees with me. Keep the sea clean and clear. (!)

THE JACKET OFF SHORE EXPLORING ARE PRODUCE IN BATAM !

2008-06-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

The shipyard industries in Batam Island not produce the ship only. But, they produce the jacket off shore exploration too. I’ve recently visiting the shipyard industry in Sekupang Batam Island – beside The Belakang Padang Island – one shipyard industry has produced the jacket for off shore exploration done.

This picture I’ve take on Thursday, May 5, 2008 about 08.04 Indonesian Time. When I’ve seen, the jacket is ready to delivery. As you know, today demand of oil is booming in the world and the OPEC member countries didn’t want to up their export quota. This is very good opportunity for the entrepreneur in the world. Their will catch this business opportunity with exploring the oil in off shore.

The biggest one foreign company in Batam Island who produce the jacket is Md Dermot – located in Batu Ampar. This company had visited by The Indonesian President two years ago. Md Dermot is invested by the US investor.

So, as you wanna to invest your money to answer the challenge of demand international business – like tug boat and ship or others – please you come down to Batam Island. Any thing other you want to know ? Please contact me, I’ll help you. !

DUBAI INVESTMENT WILL RECRUIT 9.000 EMPLOYEES !

2008-06-06T21:13:00.000-07:00

Dubai will invest US$ 500 millions in shipyard industry in Batam Island as soon. They will begin the building industry end this year. Indonesian ambassador in Arab Emirate Union, M. Wahid Supriyadi said yesterday, the investment is realization of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Riau Island Province and PT. Batam Maritim Center (BMC) last year. The investment is under flag Drydock Dubai World International Ltd.

This investment, added Supriyadi, will recruit 9.000 employees in Batam Island. Of cause, this investment is the good news for authority in Batam Island. And this investment hoped can give the best solution for heating the social problem – unemployment.

The industry will product the rig building, doc ship and other with high technology. Dubai will be the biggest shipyard industry in Asia. This shipyard need much sea land for reclamation now. The management will open biding as soon. Do you interesting?

ISMETH, THE SUPER GOVERNOR !

2008-06-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

Speaking about FTZ and Free Port in Batam Island, we’ve to talk about Ismeth Abdullah. He is the governor of Kepri Island. But, he is not just a governor, he is the super governor in Indonesia ! ‘Cos, Ismeth not just a governor of Riau Island Province. He is also the number one of FTZ Board of Batam Island – Bintan and Karimun Island too.

The structure of FTZ and Free Port of Batam is governor as the Chief of Board. And the board responsible on FTZ and Free Port progress in Batam Island. The Board also responsible to the new business and investment institution will “born”. No BIDA – Batam Insutrial Development Authority – more. BIDA will change the name and function as Developing Zone Board or Badan Pengusahaan Kawasan (BPK).

Right now, the job description of investing in Batam Island is domain of BIDA. BIDA has done to develop Batam Island in 36 years. Until we know Batam Island has more 30 industrial park and more 900 foreign investment. BIDA has develop the water treatment and electricity power and inviting the foreign investment. But, now BIDA will over and reborn as the BPK.

Last of that all, the person who responsible is Ismeth Abdullah. So that why, I said Ismeth is the super governor in Indonesia. Because, he is the powerful man in Batam and Riau Island Province today. (!)

WELCOME TO BATAM NEW SHIPYARD COMPANY !

2008-06-04T16:54:00.000-07:00

After big money come down from Dubai investing in shipyard industry, the flag company is Dubai Dry Dock joint venture with other company, Fabtech. Now, will preparing to invest again other shipyard company with flag company, Group Arpeni Pratama Oceanline, Tbk – the public company listing in Indonesia Stock Exchange. So, as a Batam citizen I wish to welcome for this two flag companies.

Dubai Dry Dock has begun the operation in Kabil Batam Island last month. They will operate they industry on 170 hectares. This is the biggest one shipyard company in Batam Island, not just in area but in investing too. And now, the company will need too much sea sand too for reclamation. In a few time, Dubai Dry Dock will open the bidding to gate the sea sand. I think, this is good opportunity for every one who has connection in this business line.

And about Group Arpeni Pratama Oceanline, Tbk, this company will invest IDR 2,8 billions – currency on US$ 1 is IDR 9.600. This investing is responding the best opportunity of cargo domestic in Indonesia right now. Because Indonesian government just launched the new regulation, every local cargo company must use the ship on national flag. That why, the company catch this regulation as the gold opportunity. So, do you want to follow them? (!)

KEPRI POLICE AGAINST THE SOFTWARE PIRACY !

2008-06-03T17:30:00.000-07:00

Indonesian police in Riau Island Province begin to against the software piracy user. After investigating in many foreign companies and big local companies in Batam Island, they find three of them are software piracy user. There are, the shipyard industry in Tanjung Uncang, international pipe industry who listing the stock in Indonesia Stock Exchange and one Singaporean company in Batamindo Industrial Park Mukakuning Batam Island.

The three big companies are suspected as user the software piracy. Although, no one arrested by the police. But police has seizure many personal computer and laptop as the evidences. Of cause, the facts shocked the public in Batam Island. ‘Cos, as the foreign investment it’s rather impossible management didn’t control the piracy product. Meanwhile, the police staff said, possible the case happen because the IT personal “naughty”.

This law enforcement is responding the international movement to against the piracy intellectual right. And Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has agreement with the boss of Microsoft, Bill Gates to against the software piracy in Indonesia. The other side, Gate have gives more contribution to Indonesian government. As journalist, I see this is the good step for the people and companies in Indonesia together against the piracy. (!)

RED CARPET WILL WELCOMING YOU IN BATAM !

2008-06-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

To day, everything about Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and Free Port regulation in Batam Island – also Bintan and Karimun islands – in Riau Island Province has done. We have done to announce the Board of Zone and who sit on the job. And last, we have get the solution about the electricity crisis. It’s mean, the “red carpet” has done to welcoming you sir! Please invest your money in Batam Island and find the sector of business you interesting.

This words above like advertisement. But actually, I’m writing the true as I seen as economic journalist. Event many foreign investor in industrial park in Batam Island has relocation they investment to other country. But, until now Batam Island still have many advantages. Such us, the geographical advantage – because near Singapora free port and Malaka strait – and the other is Batam Island has human resources.

I wanna flash back to 5 years ago. I that time, Batam Island free port and the business growing up better. And can give the tax contribution better that other region in the country. Every weekend, more than one million tourist from Singapore, Malaysia and other country come down to Batam to get the comfortable place to relax and sex. In that time, the business so good and the money is easy to find. This condition changed in 2003, after former President Megawati Soekarnoputri declare that Batam Island is like other island in Indonesia. No different between Batam Island and other island. That is the agony business in Batam Island.

But now, after more than five years the people of Batam and the local government struggle to get the new regulation, the dream will come true. That is, Batam Island will get to move fast making they self as the best place to choose. Make money in Batam Island please. (!)

TUG BOAT DEMAND BOOMING IN BATAM !

2008-06-01T03:32:00.000-07:00

Almost four months, tug boat demand booming in Batam Island. I didn’t know why many buyers come down to Batam Island and looking for the second hand tag boat here. I’ve met more than ten gentlemen and ladies who want to but the tag boat in Batam Island. They come from the big company in Jakarta and Kalimantan Island Indonesia. Some of them are Singaporean. Of cause, this is very interesting for the businessman in Batam Island. It’s the big money guys…

But, what happen? Not easy to find the second hand tag boat in Batam Island. Event in Batam Island are operating more than 50 shipyard industries. Four month ago, the broker just want to sell the second hand tug boat create in 1997 with specified 300 feet is only Rp 18 billions (with currency US$ 1 is equal with Rp 9.800) but now, the seem tug boat they sell on Rp 23 billions. Crazy!

After asking to many resources, why the tug boat price hike so fast? Some friend from Jakarta said to me, because demand of tug boat in the world right now is up too. Especially, for the Dubai and Middle East market. They want to reclamation the sea side and build more high building. So that why, tag boat demand growing up so fast.

To day, many tug boat broker in Batam Island. They come down from many cities in Indonesia. They want to find the second hand tag boat. So, do you have the channel information or second hand tug boat? Please catch the big market in Batam Island. Now. (!)

PERSONAL GUARANTY STOP THE CRISIS !

2008-05-31T16:08:00.001-07:00

Finally, after more than three week on electricity crisis, Batam Island now gate the solution. That is the Indonesian Energy and Resources Ministry, Purnomo Yusgiantoro personal guaranty. Yusgiantoro said to Riau Island Province Governor Ismeth Abdullah on May 30, 2008 in Jakarta.

Ismeth together with the Majority of Batam Ahmad Dahlan, The Chief of BIDA – Batam Industrial Development Authority – Mustofa Widjaya and other delegations from Batam Island met with the Minister. The output of this meeting is the electricity in Batam Island has running well since two day ago. This is just for housing only, the industrial park management still complain to the government. Because the gas supply from the PT. Gas Negara (PGN) Batam to the industrial park in Batam not running smoothly.

At lease, the Batam community can continue their convertible living after they gate the economic problem, that is the hike oil prices. The question is, are the electricity crisis in Batam Island finished with the ministry personal guaranty? And as the foreign investor, do you believe with minister personal guaranty for your strategic need of industry?

The local governments continue the moving to getting other best solution of the electricity crisis in Batam Island and other island in Riau Island Province. But, as a journalist, I didn’t see the fundamental solution. That is, the transparency and professionalism of the PT. PLN Batam – as the government company for electricity supply. But, I believe the new anti corrupt institution of Indonesia – we called with KPK or Komisi Pemberantasan Korupsi – can do better to investigate the financial management of PT. PLN Batam. When? One day. (!)

PLN BATAM POSTPONE THE BLACK OUT FOR HOUSING IN BATAM

2008-05-29T09:49:00.000-07:00

Properly, PT. PLN (Pelayanan Listrik Negara) Batam – the government electricity services – will black out the electricity for the hole housing in Batam Island today, May 29, 2008. That black out has already announced by the PT. PLN Batam management. But, until I’m writing this report on 23.18 Batam time, the electricity still fine.

But, the turning extinguished electricity in every housing area still going on. Of cause, as the Batam society, I wish to salute to the management of PT. PLN Batam. But, I didn’t know, is the PLN Batam management will do their schedule to totally black out tomorrow?

Meanwhile the PT. PLN Batam management postponed the totally black out, but not for the 30 industrial park in Batam Island. Their tenants are strictly complained the managements of industrial park in Batam Island today. The General Manager of Batamindo Industrial Park, John Sulistiawan said to the local media, as the management Sulistiawan shy because the PT. Gas Negara (PGN) – the national gas company supplier belong to Indonesian Government – managements dissection to stop gas supply to the industrial park.

Sulistiawan continued, the energy crisis at industrial park in Batam Island has known in Europe. Of cause, this crisis is very very bad advertising for Free Trade Zone (FTZ) Batam regulation. Sulistiawan can’t do anything only hope to the local government to preparing the best solution. But, until now, there is no best solution of electricity crisis for industrial park and housing in Batam Island. You wanna make sure by your self? Please come down to Batam Island, you’ll “enjoying” the dark adventure. (!)

WE “ENJOY” THE BLACK OUT TODAY

2008-05-28T16:32:00.000-07:00

I’m writing this report on Thursday, 29th May, 2008 05.39 Batam time. It’s mean, 5 and half hours already the gas supply from PT. Gas Negara (PGN) – the national gas company supplier belong to Indonesian Government – stop his gas supply to industrial park in hole of Batam Island. This cut off supply will continuing until Friday, 30 May, 2008.

Do you know what the impacts of this gas crisis? Of cause, this crisis will strike the 900 foreign companies in Batam Island. The impact is electricity supply will make that all companies so hard. Event the industrial park management move the electricity supply to the alternative, but this condition will be the “bad advertising” about Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and Free Trade of Batam Island. As the investor, do you wanna invest your money to this industrial park like this?

The reasoning of cut off supply is because PT.PGN will overhaul the pipe line from Jambi to Batam Island. Actually, this cut off gas supply happen to the PT. PLN (Pelayanan Listrik Negara) Batam – the government electricity services – too. The mean, PT. PLN Batam can’t operated they engines. So that why, PT. PLN Batam will black out for the hole Batam Island to day after a month the electricity stop down 2-3 times all day.

I’ve little experience, three day’s ago I want to buy the emergency lamp, what ever product. But do you know what happen? The emergency lamp is too difficult to find in Batam Island. Event the biggest one tools shop and in the super mall too. So, today we are “enjoy” the black out together with 900 foreign companies. (!)

BATAM STILL HAVE 43.000 POOR FAMILIES

2008-05-27T16:10:00.000-07:00

Meanwhile Batam Island Indonesia now is Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and free port, but until now there is 43.000 poor families. They are living in the city but they still living in the poor. Beside they city is the foreign investment destination from all over the world. The facts of this social problem can move to more messy if the Batam Majority can’t solve their problem. Their problem is difficulty to find the job opportunity and high living cost – including education, transportation and others.

Too many ironies if we talk about Batam FTZ and paradox too. But the show must go on. Batam FTZ now has the Board of Zones. This board is very power full and responsible on the FTZ and free port program. The chief of board is Ismeth Abdullah – also as the Riau Island Governor.

Back to the social problem, the Indonesian Government just give the “peanut” solution, that is they give the money – Rp 100 thousand equal with US$ 10 per month for every poor family. The government give the “tips” because the hike oil pricing this month. So, as the investor, can you imagine how the family with one wife and one or two children’s can live a month with 10 dollars?

In fact, since 3 years ago, living cost in Batam Island growing up forever and difficult live for the society. Not jut just society feel difficult problem living in Batam, business environment moving to the uncompetitive condition too. Labor organization more power full and their bargaining positions also. And the bureaucrats’s under table money activities still going on.

That all the corrupt activities are contra productive with the government programs. Because of that , more difficult by the poor citizenship to find the job. It’s mean, they can not live better. Event they live on the industrial land, Batam. (!)

ONE CENTURY INDONESIAN REVIVAL, WHAT GOING ON?

2008-05-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday, May 25, 2008 in PIH (Pusat Informasi Haji) Hotel Batam Center Indonesia, the senior politicians Akbar Tanjung came down and speak up about the reflection of 100 years Indonesian Revival. Actually, we’re memorizing the Indonesian Revival Day every May 20. Be cause, there is the very important moment in May 20, 1908 when doctor Wahidin Sudirohusodo declare the revival Indonesian people with the education building.

And now, after 100 years pass away, what going on with the Indonesian revival day?

We have nothing to make the people proud as the Indonesian. We just have the sad notice and the stupid record decision. And the end, we are feel that our nationalism is lost right now. Also the multi dimension crisis. But, the serious once is the nationalism crisis.

In the meeting with Akbar, Chief of Batam Parliaments Suryo Respationo said, to day when the people of Batam living in the dark, because we have no gas enough to drive the electricity engine. Our government decides to sell the gas to Singapore. And the pipe of gas is cross away our home, Batam. This is the irony. Singapore dance on our sad stories.

The other crisis is the economic crisis. After 100 years, the poor people population more growing up every year. And the job opportunity is very difficult to find, event by the fresh graduate of the university. Here is the fact to day.

And, this week, the Indonesia people problem so heavy. After the President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono increasing the oil prices about 28%. The President announce the new oil price only 2 days after the big inauguration of the 100 years Indonesian Revival Day in Gelora Bung Karno Stadium at Jakarta. So, do you can to feel what the Indonesian people think with their 1st century revival on the other side they living on the multi dimensions crisis. But, the President optimist, “Indonesia Can !”. (!)

WHO WANT TAKE THE FTZ ADVANTAGES ?

2008-05-24T22:45:00.001-07:00

After Indonesian Parliament and Government decide Batam Island Indonesia as free port and trade zone in Indonesia, the question is, who want take the advantage?

If we talk about advantage, it’s meaning about business. As we know together, the business oriented is gains and profits. So, what is the advantage the investors can gate from Batam Island?

After reading the FTZ and Free Port of Batam Island law, I understand that the new regulation is created for the foreign investors. Event local people can gate the little advantage too, that is from the employee opportunity. And Indonesian government just can gate the money from the tax only.

By this facts, so proper if many investor of shipyard industry – especially from Dubai and Middle East – choose Batam Island to invest their money. Because, Batam Island is very strategic place for shipyard industry business. You know why? Batam is only 20 kilometers from Singapore and located beside the Malaka Strain. It’s mean, many cargo ships and tag boat in this area. That all are the good market and good money. The other reason is, the land rent in Batam Island is competitive price. And the important one is the labor salary here is cheap.

But, for you information, if you interesting to invest your money in shipyard industry, better you find the second opinion from independent resources after you gate the government explanations. Because, the problem in shipyard industry right now is the expatriate regulation and environment matters.

Of cause, that’s just the very little information for you. There is more if you need. (!)

WELCOME TO BATAM, THE DARK CITY !

2008-05-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine, you want to “catch” big money US$ 5 billions from the foreign investment, but you give the investors the “dark city”. No enough electricity, no comfortable public facilities, no best security and more. Every one of us must be understand, that is irony. Impossible!

Here is I’m talking about Batam Island now. I wish to reminding you, to day Batam Island Indonesia – with Bintan Island and Karimun Island of Riau Islands Province – are legally free trade zone and free port already. But, until now, if you want to enjoy the dark adventure, please come to Batam Island.

In Batam, electricity stop down turning is two and three time every day. In one session – stop down electricity is about 4 to 5 hours. This “dark adventure” is not just happen in housing area, but in industry area. So, what do you think? How can you do better your business and gate the best gain?

Of cause, as a journalist who covering the economic news and investment in Batam Island, is difficult to me to understand. How come, the Governor Riau Island Province, Ismeth Abdullah can realized his target in invite foreign investors come down to Batam and invest their money US$ 5 billions?

I believe Ismeth is the smart governor. He has good networking in the world and best relationship with many entrepreneurs in all over the world. Of cause, that is not enough for me to success invite the big money come down to Batam Island. How about you? Do you believe investors will invest they money to the dark city like Batam Island? (!)

ENJOY THE BEAUTIFUL LAGOI !

2008-05-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

Do you need the relax place? Why don’t try to see the information hotel and resort at Lagoi? Lagoi is the beautiful sea side in Bintan Island of Riau Island Province – it’s only 20 kilometers from Singapore.

Not just a comfortable hotel you can find in Lagoi. But, you will find the beautiful resort and clean sand on sea side. Lagoi right now is on Singapore Tourism Board responsibility. Meanwhile, Lagoi is on Bintan Island and on Indonesia authority. That why the reason, if you come down to Lagoi tourism area, you will not feel stay in Indonesia, but feel staying in Singapore authority.

The other reason, the currency using in all transaction in Lagoi is Singapore dollar. Meanwhile you can use rupiah. But, everything is using Singapore dollar rate. That is the Lagoi on business.

Now, let see to inform you how beautiful Lagoi. Lagoi is in Bintan Island. And Bintan is the largest of some 3200 islands in the Riau Archipelago and is the 3rd largest province in Indonesia. Located at the at the end of the Straits of Malacca in the South China Sea - one of the world's oldest and busiest maritime trading routes, Bintan has provided a safe haven to traders and sailors from all over the world for many a year. Set foot on the northern shores of Bintan and you'll be greeted by a beautiful scenes and a pleasant mood, offering tourists just the right setting to rest, relax & play golf.

If you want to relax with you lovely family, you can choose one of the hotel and resort below :
- Angsana Resort and Spa (5 stars hotel)
- Banyu Biro Villa (5 stars hotel)
- Banyan Tree (5 stars hotel)
- Bintan Lagoon Resort (5 stars hotel)
- Indra Maya Villa (5 stars hotel)
- Mayang Sari Beach Resort (4 stars hotel)
I have many time visit Lagoi. So, I can guarantee you will enjoy and comfortable take holiday for 3 or 5 days in Lagoi. Please enjoy your holiday. (!)

"STOP MY CORRUPTION, PLEASE !"

2008-05-21T02:36:00.000-07:00

Every body knows, that Indonesia is the “best” corruption country in the world. And the people in all over the world know too, that difficult to find the project in Indonesia running well on planning – financial and time schedule. But, here is my best friend experience I wish to share to you all about the corruption.

My friend name is, Kaka Suminta – the senior journalist in the Jawa Pos Group Publishing – he told to me his experience. One day, Kaka doing the investigating reporting in West Java Indonesia, about the corruption infrastructure project. Finally, Kaka find the fact, that the Head of Project – staff of the majority – corrupt. So, Kaka wrote the report in his newspaper.

After exposed the corruption story in the paper, the Head of Project arrested by the police and got to jail for 2 years. In other day, the young boy come to Kaka’s home want to sell the second hand television about 250 thousands rupiah. The boy need the money for his life. Because that boy is the friend of his son, Kaka didn’t want to buy that the second hand television. He gave the boy the money and ask him. “Why you sell the television for gate the money, why you don’t ask to your father ?” Kaka asked him.

The boy said. “My father in the jail now, uncle.”
Kaka ask again. “Who is your father ?”
The boy said the his father name.

After hear the father’s boy name, Kaka shocked. He rather feel regret after blow up the father's boy corruption case. But, as a journalist, Kaka aware, he just doing his proffessional job.

And after two years, Kaka met with the father's boy. Do you know what happent?
The father's boy said to Kaka. "Thank's you had stop my corrupt. 'Cos, I can't stop my corruption before I got to jail." He said.

And he continue again. "After my first corruption, I can't stop it, because I head to head with many poeple, they bring me to the defficult possition. So, than's a lot Kaka."

By this experience, I wanna say to all journalist in Indonesia, please help the poeple who corrupt, to stop it. I believe, you can guys. (!)

THE FREE TRADE ZONE AREA IN KARIMUN ISLAND INDONESIA

2008-05-20T03:54:00.000-07:00

Here is the Free Trade Zone area in Karimun Island Indoneia.
Notice : PULAU is the meaning ISLAND.

THE FREE TRADE ZONE AREA IN BINTAN ISLAND INDONESIA

2008-05-20T03:51:00.000-07:00

Here is the Free Trade Zone area in Bintan Island Indonesia.
Notice : PULAU is the meaning ISLAND

THE FREE TRADE ZONE AREA IN BATAM ISLAND INDONESIA

2008-05-20T03:47:00.000-07:00

Here is the Free Trade Zone area in Batam Island Indonesia.
Notice : PULAU is the meaning is ISLAND.

ILLEGAL WORKER IN SHIPARD INDUSTRY !

2008-05-19T02:58:00.000-07:00

My best friend – he is a labor organization activist in Batam – said to me in one day. Many management employee and black worker on shipyard industry in Batam are illegal workers. “They’re come to Batam as a tourist, but actually they work here,” he said.

As a journalist, I can’t believe directly that issue. Meanwhile, that is important issue for my daily newspaper, but I can’t write the report before doing check and balance. We have the professional rules, I have to come down to the shipyard industry and see by my eyes. Is true there is the illegal worker there?

So, I decide to investigate this issue. The step is beginning with going to the gate of one shipyard industry in Tanjung Uncang Batam in the evening. Of cause, I didn’t entering the shipyard area. ‘Cos the security is not friendly for my doing. So, I just waiting beside the gate and waiting for the illegal worker gate out the area. After waiting for a while, I saw four young guys – look like the Indian people – entering the car and go to cross the gate.

To make sure for my self, I follow that is car. The car move so fast in front of my car. But I don’t want lose my target. So drive more fast too. After in half hour our “journey”, the illegal worker’s car entering to the Marina City area and stop in front of the inn. “See, that is the illegal worker.” The activist labor organization said to me.

For me, this is not enough to can decide that the shipyard industry in Batam is the destiny of illegal worker. I’ve to make sure any more. So I ask more questions to the Batam Immigration Staff. He said to me, it is indeed many illegal worker are entering to Batam with the tourist visa. “Some of them are entering here with VoA – Visa on Arrival – facilities.”

By this information, I believe that is information not just a rumor only. Especially, my neighbor – he is a worker in the shipyard industry – said to me, that in his company just arriving four illegal people from Malaysia. They are come down to Batam as a tourist. So, if you ask me, “where is your immigration staff ?” or you ask me more, “where is your police and worker department staff ?”. Really, I can’t answer your question better than this lie. “They are know everything about the illegal working. But they are didn’t know where is the eye of God there ?” (!)

OUR GOAL IS US$ 5 BILLIONS !

2008-05-18T03:17:00.000-07:00

The local government of Riau Island Province has special goal for incoming foreign investment this year is US$ 5 billions. This is not just a marketing target after Batam Island, also Bintan Island and Karimun Island has a new law, free trade zone and free port. Right now, the existing foreign investment is US$ 1 billion. Is this goal just a dream?

The Governor of Riau Island Province Ismeth Abdullah said, he has meet with many foreign investors. They’re ready to invest their money in Batam, Bintan and Karimun islands. But, they’re still waiting and seeing now. They’re waiting the certain of Indonesian law. Of cause, they wanna save their money here.

He continuing their explaining to us – a journalists – the foreign investor interesting to invest they money in special industry, like shipyard. That why, he has preparing the many land and location in three islands of Riau Island Province. “Many beach are available for shipyard industry.”

To day, more than 50 shipyard industry has existing in Batam Island now and will be increase in the future. You can count, if one shipyard industry can recruiting 2 s/d 5 thousand workers. That why the reason, the local government of Riau Island Province very optimist investment environment will be better in the future.

But, there is the little important notice I’ve to write here about shipyard industry. That is, the management less concern to environment issue and social care. I think this is the serious matter for better in the future. Like near the Sambu Island of Batam Majority, there is the shipyard industry didn’t care to people living health. Many people sick because the effect of shipyard industry.

Seem case, in Dapur 12 District of Batu Aji Batam Majority. There is one shipyard beside Islamic Boarding School of An Ni’mah, it very close, but the management never give the community development money. They don’t care. Is the industry like this invited Mr. Governor? (!)

CMA CGM WILL BEAT PSA !

2008-05-17T02:58:00.000-07:00

Almost two years already, CMA CGM (Compagnie Maritime d’ Affretement - Compagnie General Maritime) France preparing to invest his big big money to build the international free port Batu Ampar Batam Indonesia. It’s will beat the PSA (Port Singapore Authority) Singapore?

This big shipping company from Marseille France has win the beauty contest two years ago to build Batu Ampar international cargo port. The memorandum of understanding has signed between two side. CMA CGM and BIDA – Batam Industrial Development Authority – on behalf of Indonesian government.

The PDG Group CMA CGM Mr. Jaques Saade has said, his company is very serious and interesting to invest his big money, US$ 477 billions. The other side, Indonesian government agree to give 50 years for BOT (Built-Operate-Transfer). This world wide shipping company from Marseille ready to build the existing cargo port alone, no strategic partner company.

Of course, CMA CGM must ready to “head to head” with the PSA Singapore, the biggest and the busy once sea port in the world. But, my best friend – he’s a businessman and have good relationship – said to me, “I don’t believe CMA want to continue this project, as the investor, CMA never take risk to head to head with competitor like PSA.”

Especially, in the big shipping business like this, must the is the “un-touch-table” law by the mafia. That why, some people had make this project as a gambling object. Done or not? Please take your lucky choose sir. (!)

BODYGUARD FOR U SIR !

2008-05-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Do you wanna have a bodyguard ? Do you know how? Easy man. Just invest your money in Batam, choose one of opportunity business sector and you can gate the bodyguard. Interesting?

That is the promise from the Head Police of Riau Island Province, Brigadier General Sutarman, Wednesday, 14th May 2008 after his meeting with the Head of Investment Board Muhammad Lutfi in Singapore. Of course, not private body guard available for you sir – foreign investor – they are the police staff. They’re will protect you sir. Not just protect your industry and business, they will also give you more security, secure of your self.

In once time, two month ago, I’ve met this one star general in Novotel Hotel Batam. In that time, Sutarman said to me, that he ready to order his staff to protect the foreign investment in Batam. For him, that’s number one priority. Why? Because, foreign investment is very important now for stimulate economic movement. Not just in Batam, but the hole country, Indonesia.

With the same reason, Sutarman briefing his senior staff in BIDA – Batam Industrial Development Authority – building 3rd floor. He said, “don’t playing the law with the foreigner !”

He continue his briefing, if there is the foreigner again the Indonesian law, the police must take strike action. “Don’t ask the money from them.” He Said again.

So, do u believe with the Head Police of Riau Island Province, Brigadier General Sutarman promise? Up to u sir. (!)

LET'S BE BATAM FTZ GUARD !

2008-05-15T04:01:00.000-07:00

This blog is focusing to inform you about Free Trade Zone (FTZ), Free Port and Shipyard Industry in Batam Island of Riau Islands Province Indonesia (about 20 kilometers from Singapore). Reported by Saibansah Dardani, the economic journalist of NERACA daily news publishing in Jakarta Indonesia. He has stay in Batam since 2002.

You can find more information about the FTZ news, the port news, statement of local government of Batam and Kepri Island Province, and more hanky panky business. Also the important information is the under table money in environment bureaucracy in Batam.

I’ll split every news in three title. There are :

WHAT’S UP !

This title will inform you about daily news about FTZ issue and Free Port information who has publishing in local newspaper. Of course, not just that daily newspaper you will gate, but you can find other be ground information related about every issue.

WHAT’S ON !

In this title will be available more information about what will going on FTZ Batam and Port. Including many issue about the foreign company (may be) from your country. Because right now in Batam already exist 980 foreign investor companies and this year will growing up and targeting more than 1.000 companies. And more issue about what will happen in business and investment environment in Batam Island.

SPEAK UP !

This title is available for all readers in all over the world. Please send your opinion and what is your vision about the Batam FTZ and Batam Free Port. Your opinion will be the second opinion for the decision maker in Batam and local government. Thanks for your attention.

BATAM IS FREE NOW !

2008-05-15T03:34:00.000-07:00

Since, 9th October 2007, Batam has entering to the new business and investment environment. ‘Cos, the Indonesian parliament in Jakarta has approval the new law of Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and Free Port for Batam Island and two others, Karimun and Bintan. Also in Riau Islands Province. But this law can not be applied directly. Must be approval by the Indonesian President, Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY).

I wanna bring you to review of short history of investment in Batam. Batam is the neighbor of Singapore (only 45 minute by the boat) and Malaysia (only 50 minute by the boat) and beside the Malaka strain. So, that all potential economic of geography is used by the last Indonesian President, Soeharto, to build Batam island become the industrial and international port.

And Soeharto command to his minister BJ. Habibie to develop Batam island. And this engineer from Bugis Sulawesi island start to develop Batam and invite the foreign investor to Batam. He also build the six bridges in Batam island, Rempang island and Galang island. Of course that is the monumental construction building in Indonesia. Until now, the people of Batam is very proud of that six bridges.

Since 1990-ies, the foreign investor from all over the world take the gold opportunity to take big gain in Batam. They invest in shipyard industry, electricity, transportation, real estate and tourism. They’re come from many country like Japan, Singapore, England, US, British, Germany ext. ‘Cos Batam in that time still one of the best choose to invest. Batam near Singapore, the land is available for building, the seaside for shipyard is available too. And the important one is, the cheep labor salary depending to others country in region.

In that time, Batam still on developing in every sector of business facilities. Like electricity, water distribution, streets and roads, houses for the people and industrial worker and the local government starting begun. Everything is running well until the new era of democracy come in Indonesia and begin realized in 2001. In that time, the local government is powerful and have authority to make the local tax regulation and use the money.

Now, Batam is different. Batam is free now, although the new regulation give more facilities for the foreign investors like free tax and simple import spare part procedure. But, many “police” ready to catch every one who proofed again the law and our new regulations. They’re including the police, navy, custom, immigration staff, tax staff and more. Some time, they’re doing like the “god cop” but in other opportunity they like to doing like “bad cop”. (!)