A Singaporean traveller’s allegations against an immigration officer in Batam have sparked widespread discussion online after she claimed she was intimidated, threatened and pressured into paying around S$37 at an Indonesian ferry terminal.
The incident allegedly took place at Sekupang Ferry Terminal in Batam, a popular entry point frequently used by Singaporeans travelling to Indonesia for short holidays, shopping and leisure trips.
The woman’s social media post quickly gained traction in Indonesia, prompting Batam immigration authorities to issue a public response and launch an internal investigation into the matter.
According to Indonesian media reports, the traveller claimed she was stopped by an immigration officer while using her mobile phone at the immigration checkpoint.
She explained that she had been attempting to retrieve a QR code linked to her previously completed arrival declaration when the confrontation occurred.
Traveller Claims She Was Threatened During Immigration Dispute
In her account, the Singaporean alleged that the officer shouted at her and demanded payment of IDR500,000, which is approximately S$37.
She also claimed she was threatened with having to “sleep on the ferry” or even “go to jail” if she did not comply.
The allegations triggered strong reactions online, with many social media users questioning whether the payment request was legitimate or an attempt at extortion.
However, Batam immigration authorities later clarified that the money collected was allegedly linked to a Visa on Arrival (VoA) requirement rather than an illegal payment.
According to Batam Immigration public relations head Kharisma Rukmana, the situation arose due to a misunderstanding involving the traveller’s immigration status and visa eligibility.
Authorities explained that the IDR500,000 payment was processed through a BRI Bank counter and transferred directly into Indonesia’s state treasury as official non-tax revenue.
The Visa on Arrival scheme allows eligible foreign visitors to stay in Indonesia for up to 30 days.
Indonesian Authorities Launch Internal Investigation
Despite the clarification, Indonesian immigration authorities acknowledged concerns surrounding the incident and apologised publicly for the inconvenience caused.
Officials said mediation sessions had been conducted between both parties to better understand the dispute.
According to authorities, the matter has since been resolved amicably, with both the Singaporean traveller and the officer reportedly apologising to each other following discussions.
Nevertheless, the immigration officer involved has reportedly been temporarily removed from duty while further investigations continue.
Authorities stated that the suspension was necessary to ensure the investigation remains objective and professional.
As part of internal procedures, the officer also reportedly underwent a urine test to rule out any involvement in narcotics abuse.
The case has drawn attention among Singapore travellers who frequently visit Batam due to its close proximity and relatively low-cost travel options from Singapore.
Travel experts often advise travellers entering foreign countries to prepare all required arrival declarations, visas and digital travel documents in advance to minimise misunderstandings at immigration checkpoints.
The incident has also reignited broader discussions online regarding traveller rights, immigration procedures and communication challenges faced by tourists at busy regional entry points.