Singapore, Indonesia plan joint study to transform Batam, Bintan into ‘vibrant digital hub’

Singapore and Indonesia are set to collaborate on transforming the Batam, Bintan, and Karimun (BBK) region into a "vibrant digital hub." A joint study will identify future opportunities within the technology sector, signaling a deepening of economic ties between the two neighboring countries. The initiative was a key topic at the 16th Singapore-Indonesia Six Bilateral Economic Working Groups (6WG) Ministerial Meeting in Jakarta on June 9.

Co-chaired by Singapore's Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong and Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, the annual meeting serves as a platform to coordinate economic cooperation across six sectors. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic ties amidst global uncertainty, with a particular focus on the digital economy, green energy, industrial infrastructure, and agri-tech.

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Singapore and Indonesia share a longstanding and deep relationship, built on mutual cooperation and benefits.

"Singapore and Indonesia share a longstanding and deep relationship, built on mutual cooperation and benefits," Gan stated at a joint press conference. He highlighted the agreement to enhance cooperation in supply chain resilience and explore complementary support. Airlangga noted the significant progress made across various sectors, emphasizing the focus on translating cooperation into concrete investments and projects. "I am pleased that our bilateral economic cooperation is strong and more importantly, heading to the right direction," he said.

The BBK region's development as a digital and technology hub is a strategic priority. Several data center projects are already underway. This initiative complements the upcoming 10th anniversary of the Kendal Industrial Park (KIP), a successful joint industrial estate, which is set to expand. The expansion aims to attract more investment and create jobs in Central Java, supporting Indonesia's manufacturing base and Singaporean companies seeking opportunities in Southeast Asia's largest economy.

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I am pleased that our bilateral economic cooperation is strong and more importantly, heading to the right direction.