BINTAN, January 1, 2025 – A festive atmosphere enveloped Bandar Bentan Telani Ferry Terminal as Bintan Resorts welcomed its first international visitors of the new year. Over 100 travelers, arriving on the maiden voyage from Singapore’s Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, were greeted with vibrant cultural performances and tokens of Indonesian hospitality.
The celebration featured traditional Malay dances and the melodic sounds of the kolintang, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Each visitor received a bouquet of flowers, a gesture symbolizing the warm embrace of Bintan’s tropical paradise.
Key dignitaries in attendance included Abdul Wahab, Chief Operating Officer of Bintan Resorts Management; Robby Kurniawan, Head of the Bintan Regency; Ansar Ahmad, Governor of the Riau Islands; and Ni Luh Enik Ermawati, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Indonesia.
Abdul Wahab emphasized Bintan Resorts’ commitment to positioning the island as a premier global destination. “Bintan Resorts is known for its diverse accommodations, sustainable tourism practices, and breathtaking natural beauty. We are thrilled to begin 2025 with such an auspicious occasion and are grateful for the Ministry of Tourism’s steadfast support. With new initiatives such as the 7-day Visa-on-Arrival (VOA) policy and collaborations like our partnership with VFS Global to attract Indian travelers, we are confident in achieving our target of 1.5 million international visitors this year,” he said.
Robby Kurniawan, Head of the Bintan Regency, highlighted the island’s unique appeal. “Bintan is a jewel in Indonesia’s tourism landscape. This celebration marks a new chapter in solidifying Bintan’s position as a leading international destination. It’s a privilege to showcase our cultural richness while promoting eco-tourism and hospitality excellence,” he stated.
Governor Ansar Ahmad of the Riau Islands lauded efforts to improve accessibility. “The new Visa-on-Arrival policy and the recently launched ferry route connecting Pasir Gudang in Malaysia to Bintan underscore our commitment to making the Riau Islands more accessible. These advancements are pivotal in driving tourism and fostering economic growth in the region,” he remarked.
Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Enik Ermawati echoed the sentiments, saying, “Bintan Resorts exemplifies Indonesia’s tourism potential by blending culture, nature, and modern amenities. The Ministry of Tourism is proud to support initiatives that elevate Indonesia’s profile on the global stage.”
Looking ahead, Bintan Resorts is poised for a banner year, with the opening of new hospitality landmarks such as Hotel Indigo, Holiday Inn Resorts, and the much-anticipated Mövenpick Resort and Spa Bintan Lagoon. The calendar is also packed with international events, including the Regatta, Bintan Triathlon, and Bintan Marathon, further solidifying the island’s reputation as a hub for world-class experiences.
