Batam Mayor Seeks Special Legislation to Handle Migration Surge

Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad has proposed the urgent need for special legislation, termed "lex specialis," to address population administration challenges in Batam. The city is grappling with rapid population growth driven by high migration rates, placing significant pressure on its limited land and infrastructure.

Achmad highlighted that Batam's migration rate is the second highest in Indonesia, trailing only Bekasi. This rapid influx strains essential services like clean water, electricity, and public facilities. He warned that without proper management, these conditions could lead to social problems and negatively impact the investment climate.

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Based on the latest data from the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration, Batam now ranks second nationally with the highest migration rate after Bekasi. This condition is in stark contrast to Batam's limited land area.

Speaking during a meeting with Commission II of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Achmad explained that conventional population control methods are insufficient and could lead to legal issues or be perceived as discriminatory. He stressed that Batam requires a unique regulatory approach beyond its status as a Free Trade Zone (FTZ).

"We hope the central government, along with Commission II of the DPR RI, can formulate a lex specialis in the field of population administration for regions like Batam, so that migration control can be carried out appropriately without neglecting the constitutional rights of citizens," Achmad stated. The discussion also touched upon the development of the Merah Putih Integrated School, a national strategic project for which the Batam city government has allocated approximately 18 to 19 hectares of land.

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We hope the central government, along with Commission II of the DPR RI, can formulate a lex specialis in the field of population administration for regions like Batam, so that migration control can be carried out appropriately without neglecting the constitutional rights of citizens.