Batam immigration authorities have launched an investigation following reports that travellers, including Singaporeans, were allegedly asked to pay unofficial fees when entering the island. The claims, first highlighted on March 25, involved two separate groups of visitors who said they were asked for amounts of up to S$250 to clear immigration checks.
Investigation Underway by Batam Authorities
Kharisma Rukmana, head of the information and communication section at the Batam Immigration Office, confirmed the reports to The Jakarta Post. She apologised for the inconvenience and said that the Indonesia Immigration Directorate General’s Internal Compliance Directorate is reviewing and investigating the matter.
Hajar Aswad, the Head of the Batam Immigration Office, added that should the investigation reveal any wrongdoing by officers, disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with existing regulations. “Batam Immigration Office is committed to zero tolerance of any form of illegal levies and will follow up all suspected violations objectively and professionally,” Hajar said.
Encouragement for Official Reporting
Neither official clarified how many officers are currently under scrutiny or whether CCTV evidence has been reviewed. Authorities urged travellers to report any misconduct through official channels, including email, WhatsApp, or Instagram direct messages, to ensure accountability.
“We believe all foreign tourists entering Indonesia are entitled to immigration services that are transparent, professional, and compliant with regulations,” Kharisma stated.
The ongoing investigation highlights the importance of vigilance when travelling, even in destinations frequently visited by Singaporeans. Tourists are encouraged to document any irregular requests for fees and to report them promptly to ensure both personal safety and adherence to immigration laws.
Indonesian authorities continue to monitor the situation, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.