Batam At A Glance

CURRENCY – Indonesia’s currency is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR), and it is divided into 100 small denomination coins, or sen.

CONSULATE – For more information on Consulate-General of the Republic of Singapore in Batam, please click here.

WATER – Tap water is not safe for drinking, so make sure to only drink bottled or boiled water.

POWER SUPPLY – Plugs are available in two or three pin configurations of 220 volts and 50 Hz.

FRIDAYS – It is common to see people wearing traditional Indonesian batik clothing as a sign of respect and appreciation for the culture.

GETTING AROUND – We recommend car charter, Blue Bird Taxis, or GoJek (which has its own pick-up point just outside Shu Guo Yin Xiang Hot Pot) to get around Batam. When booking rides with other cab services, make sure to negotiate the price before getting in. Grab cars can drop off passengers but cannot pick up at Harbourbay Downtown. 

HANDICAP ACCESSIBILITY – Batam is handicap-accessible at most major hotels and malls; however, a large part of the island is still not equipped with ramps or lifts.

HANG NADIM AIRPORT – It is approximately 20 kilometers away from Harbourbay Downtown, which is an approximate 27-minute drive.

INTERNET CONNECTIVITY – High-speed internet is easily accessible in most major hotels and shopping malls. It is also available through Harbour Bay Ferry Terminal.

LANGUAGE – The languages used are mainly Indonesian and Chinese.

PHONE USE – Foreigners can purchase SIM cards at booths right outside the arrival hall of Harbourbay Ferry Terminal for use within Indonesia.

PRAYER ROOM – There are prayer rooms in most shopping malls, hotels, and restaurants.

RELIGION – Muslims make up the majority of the population but there are also followers of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, and other faiths. Each religion has its unique set of beliefs and customs that people adhere to while living in harmony with one another.

SMOKING & ALCOHOL – Smoking and alcohol are generally permitted. 

TIPPING – Tipping is not required or expected, but greatly appreciated by the locals.

TIME ZONE – Batam follows Western Indonesian Time (GMT+7), which is one hour behind Singapore’s time.

WEATHER – Batam has a tropical climate with constant warm temperatures all year, averaging around 29° Celcius. The island receives high amounts of rainfall, with the rainiest months being October and November.

Public Holidays