Showing posts with label transport. Show all posts
Showing posts with label transport. Show all posts

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Riau Governor's plane lost in space

A plane carrying Riau Islands Governor Ismeth Abdullah and 13 key officials was recently forced to hover above Sumatra for two hours due to the failure of a Global Positioning System (GPS), an official said Tuesday.

Hang Nadim Airport’s aviation safety unit head, Elfi Amirm, told The Jakarta Post the governor’s chartered flight was bound for Sei Bati Airport on Karimun Island from Tanjung Pinang on Sunday when the aircraft encountered the technical problem.

Elfi said the Sei Bati Airport noticed something was going wrong with the Cassa 212 plane operated by Sabang Merauke Air Charter, as it did not land an hour after takeoff at 8:10 a.m. It normally takes less than 15 minutes to reach Karimun from Tanjung Pinang by flight.

“I reported the problem to the Singapore aviation authorities to direct the plane,” Elfi said.

The governor finally touched down safely at Sei Bati Airport, thanks to the Singapore Air Traffic Control. There is no report about how the governor and the officials on board reacted to the aviation problem.

The absence of a radar in all airports across the province has forced the province to rely on the Singapore-controlled Flight Information Region (FIR) for decades, Elfi said.

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) requires the nearest member country that possesses a more sophisticated navigation system to help another member country in need.

From Jakarta Post

Friday, June 5, 2009

Deadly Rough Sea for Returning Illegal Immigrants

This is a bad month for seafarers. Over the last 2 weeks, 3 boats have sank whilst carrying returning illegal immigrants from Malaysia. More than 10 lives have been lost. This is due to the high waves as well as the lack of safety measures in the boats that carry these illegal immigrants. Tanjung Balai is a destination for returning illegal immigrants from Malaysia who do not carry any proper travel documentation.

These boats come from Kukup, Tanjung Piai Pontian and Tanjung Pelepas Port, Malaysia. Their destintation is Tanjung Balai Karimun, Indonesia.

Tourists numbers descending

From Gustia Benny, Batam Pos

The Department of transportation, Karimun regency reviewed the application of the increase in port tax. There was a decrease in foreign tourists but the number is not too significant, only about 5 percent.

The port authorities have decided to keep the increase in port tax and will only review the increase if the number of foreign tourist drops by 30 percent or more.

Karimun street curbs freed from traders

Side walk of Tanjung Balai. Blocked pathways forces pedestrians to walk dangerously on main road.
From Tribun Batam

Most of Tanjung Balai's street curbs/walkways are being used by traders as places to store merchandise, flower pots and also used for motor cycle parking. In fact the walkways main purpose is for pedestrian use.

There was a raid by local authorities on Mon, 1st June. This was to impress upon the traders that the walkways is for pedestrian use only, not as part of the trader's selling area.

Roads such as Jln Nusantara, Jln Pramuka and Jln A Yani are not very pedestrian friendly. Pedestrians are forced to walk on the main roads, which can be quite dangerous with the heavy flow of traffic.

The local authorities have given warning that this will not be tolerated and action will be taken soon if the traders do not clear up the problem.

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Tourism starting to slow down in Tanjung Balai

On a recent trip to Tanjung Balai Karimun, I noticed a big difference from a year ago. The ferry trip from Kukup Malaysia was only half filled, with only a few Malaysians. Most of the passengers were Indonesians returning. Even the coffee shop operators in Kukup were complaining that they see a drop of around 30% in business. They also mentioned that the Malaysian immigration were tightening the entry requirements for Indonesians (maybe due to the economic downturn in Malaysia). More indonesians are asked to show uang tunjuk when they enter Malaysia. This is the amount of money that the Indonesians have on them to prove they are here on a social visit and can afford to pay for their stay instead of working illegally. If the visitors do not have enough uang tunjuk, they are sent back to Indonesia.

I also heard that a ferry operator from Singapore to Tanjung Balai Karimun recently cut their daily trips from 6 a day to just 3 due to low passenger load.

Maximillian hotel was quiet, even on a Saturday. The local restaurants were also very quiet. They are normally very popular with tourists who frequent them for their fresh seafood. The local Karaokes (KTV), night clubs and disco are also affected. One employee told me they are really feeling the global economic downturn now. If they have a time machine, they would love to go back a year ago!

I think there are a few different reasons why Tanjung Balai is starting to feel the pinch now. Firstly it was the economic crisis, then there is unreasonable increase in TBK's port tax from Rupiah 25k to 60k for foreigners. Recently there was a threat to shut down Villa, the brothel complex. This may have scared off some people.

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Foreign Visitors Decreasing

Translated from Batampos Kunjungan WNA Menurun

6th May 2009

KARIMUN - The number of visitors from foreign countries to Tanjungbalai Karimun continues to show a decrease after the implementation of the new seaport tax on the 1st May 2009. Foreign passport holders are charged the seaport tax of Rp60 thousand, local passport holders are charged Rp30 thousand. Previously the seaport tax was apllied to all at Rp25 thousand.

Seaport tax increase according to Regional Regulation... where the seaport exit tariff for outbound ships to foreign countries (Singapore & Malaysia) was charged at Rp60 thousand. "The number of foreign arrivals entering since the start date has decline since 3rd May. It averages out to be a decline of around 50%.", said A Pramudite, Head of Port Immigration Inspection Unit (TPI) in the Tanjungbalai Karimun international seaport , Tuesday (5th May) yesterday.

A Pramudite mentioned that normally there are 15 trips a day made by foreign bound ferries. However on Friday, only 12 trips were made. "In fact we had no problems implementing the increase of the seaport tax but our record shows that the decline in foreign visits is visibly obvious," he said.

Based on data obtained from the TPI Tanjungbalai Karimun, foreign arrivals in the month of March reached 23,949 people. While April was 22,967 people. The high seaport tax rates that applies to foreign passport holders has attracted complaints from Malaysians. This is because the seaport tax in Malaysia is only RM10, about Rp 30 thousand. Malaysians have complained this to Afa, a taxi driver who often works from the harbour.

"Guests are now saying that they no longer want to visit Karimun because the seaport tax is double that of Malaysia" Afa grumbles. There are consequence due to the increased seaport tax tariff. Afa admits his livelihood is threatened. Bringing guests around Tanjung Balai is no longer viable. "How can we earn a living if there are no more visitors? We hope that the local authorities will review the seaport tax," said Afa.

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Things to do around Tanjung Balai Town

Narrow street of Tanjung Balai. Take a walk around town. Don't get stuck in your hotel or else you will miss many things. There are only 2-3 main streets in town. They are narrow, so be careful. Watch out for the holes in the sidewalk. Some places, you have to walk on the main road because the sidewalk is blocked. Watch out for the traffic when you do so.

There are a few nice cafes/restaurants which are airconditioned. Try them out.

Wooden bus, oplet. Tanjung Balai Karimun This is a schoolbus carrying the local kids. The body is made from wood. Very colourful and cute. Note the driver's window.





Magnificent temple on Jalan Nusantara, Tanjung Balai townThis is a chinese temple on Jl Nusantara near towards the market area.






Night market or pasar malam in Tanjung Balai, KarimunIf you head towards the ferry terminal, you will pass the pasar malam. This night market opens around the late afternoon and is open till about 10pm. Great to buy snacks and food.







Kuih kuih at the pasar malamOne of the food stalls at the pasar malam.

Friday, April 24, 2009

News: MV Falcon rough ferry ride from Singapore

PT Info Falcon Management reported that it's ferry, MV Falcon 2, could not depart from Singapore due to high waves and and being swamped rather than water leakage as reported earlier.

"Approximately at 19.00 WIB, whille passing Takong Kecil Island, MV Falcon 2 was trapped by very strong sea waves. The sea water came over the top of the ship, "said PT Indo Falcon Port Captain, Johanes Diano Bani , Thursday (23rd April).

Johanes thinks that the water came in through the ventilation shafts on the upper deck. Then it flowed through to the passenger compartment in the front. This condition prevented us from continuing to Tanjung Balai Karimun in the bad weather condition. So the captain decided for a rescue operation. He decided to change course for the nearest island for shelter and called his company for immediate evacuation.

Meanwhile Johanes said, the captain announced to the passengers of 46 people (not 63 people) that the ship could not continue in it's travel.

"After MV Falcon 5 arrived, passengers and goods were transferred aboard. The evacuation occured between 20:00 and 21:00 WIB. Passengers who were evacuated to MV Falcon 5 arrived in Karimun around 22:21 o'clock WIB in safe condition and no baggage was missing or damaged," he said.

The next day, Wednesday (22nd April) during high tide, MV Falcon 2 was taken to Tanjunguncang, Batam for a dock inspection.

"From the Tanjunguncang inspection, we found no leaks in the boat. There was no leak under the waterline. During the MV Falcon 2 incident, water came through the top of the ship and ventilation and could not sail to Batam, "John said firmly.


Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Global Economic Crisis Affecting Tanjung Balai Karimun?

Is the world financial crisis affecting Karimun Island? There is a definite decrease in tourism from neighbouring countries like Singapore and Malaysia. Anecdotal feedback from ferry operators, taxi drivers indicate a drop of around 30-40% in the last 4-5 months. Hotels have also been affected badly. There is no indication yet whether the FTZ investors like PT Saipem will be affected.

Monday, April 13, 2009

Promise to promote Karimun Island to Singapore Investors

Indonesian ambassador to Singapore Wardana, promise to promote Karimun island to potential Singaporean investors. "In order to promote the potential of Karimun we are here to see it for ourselves.", he said during a launch during the three-day visit to Karimun, recently (12th April 2009).

Moreover ambassador Wardana said that the investment opportunities are huge, now that Karimun is confirmed as a Free Trade Zone (FTZ). This is also an advantage with the close proximity to Singapore. Ambassador Wardana said the areas that will be reviewed will be the potential of the agriculture, tourism and maritime industries. "We will hold talks with stakeholders in Karimun, and later we will hear and see the existing conditions for ourselves." He said specifically.

Meanwhile, Karimun Regent Nurdin Basirun said, Karimun will be introduced to the outside world, particularly Singapore. That is why we invited the ambassador to view the potential of Karimun region.

Saturday, April 11, 2009

News - PT Saipem spends Rp 2.5t rupiah for largest fabrication yard in Karimun, Riau

PT Saipem is investing heavily into Karimun island.

Fadli
The Jakarta Post
Tanjung Balai Karimun
Mon, 04/07/2008 11:16 AM

Italian-based turnkey oil and gas contractor Saipem International has begun construction of a massive fabrication yard in Karimun, Riau Islands, with a total project investment of Rp 2.5 trillion (US$271 million).

During the launch ceremony of the ground-breaking facility Friday, Saipem offshore general manager Yves Inbona told the press the yard would be the company's largest production facility of its kind.

Occupying some 140 hectares of land, the facility would have a production capacity of 30,000 tons of oil and gas related components.

"The production facility will be one of the company's largest. Products from here will be allocated for demands in Indonesia as well as for neighboring areas," said Inbona, adding the company expected the facility to start operations in 2010.

He said Karimun Island was chosen to house the facility due to its free-trade zone status.

The company, which plans to employ 5,000 workers, has requested local administration improve business infrastructure on Karimun, including highways, power capacity and ports to help boost the operation's efficiency.

Riau Islands governor Ismeth Abdullah said the project signaled the revival of foreign direct investments in the province.

In a bid to lure more foreign investment into the country, the central government is planning to grant Batam Island, Bintan Island and Karimun Island special economic status whereby various business facilities there will benefit from free-trade.

Batam is located around 30 minutes from Singapore by ferry.

Ismeth said the administration decided to make Karimun Island a center for maritime business due to its deep water access that can accommodate large vessels, making it ideal to serve as a shipyard and offshore production facility.

"We are confident more and more international companies will come to Karimun to construct production facilities, especially those related to maritime and offshore businesses," he said.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Safety

Tanjung Balai looks like a dangerous place at first. When you first exit the harbour, you will be mobbed by the taxi touts and it can be scary. They can get quite aggressive. If you dont intend to use them, just ignore them with contempt. It's all in the body language. To avoid any problems with taxi drivers, always agree on the price and services first. Normally hiring the taxi for a short trip around town is 30k rupiah. An ojek ride is 10k.

You will also notice people staring at you if you are a foreigner. Regardless of whether you are a westerner, Singaporean or Malaysia, the locals will know and stare at you. Again, ignore them. Most of the people staring at you are unemployed and bored, not criminals looking to rob you.

Generally there is very little crime against visitors. Just do the normal safe things like not be conspicuous with lots of money. I always carry and use a money clip with just a few 50k rupiah notes and small change. I do not use my wallet which may contain millions of rupiah. Leave your wallet and passport at the hotel or room safe. Don't worry if the polisi ask for ID. Just say that it is with the Hotel. You are required to surrender your passport to the hotel when you check in anyway.

There are lots of stories online about how dangerous balai can be. However I have not felt threatened. The only time I was a little worried was in my dealings with the polisi. Some bad apples will always look for ways to "cari makan" (earn a bit on the side). That is another story altogether.

Sometimes, visitors who are showy will get a bit loud and become assholes. Then they attract trouble for themselves and their companions. Just be cool and polite. Let the little things pass by. If someone overcharge you 5k rupiah for something, let it go and just don't go there anymore.

For bigger issues, it is who you know that will matter. So always try to be friendly to the locals like the hotel manager, etc. Don't bother with the hanger ons... They just want a free ride.



If you go to places like the disco and KTV, try to get a local guy to with you first. A bit of safety and orientation is needed to know the dos and donts. Get to know the locals. It helps.. You then have to decide how helpful and trustworthy they are.

Don't wear expensive watches and jewelry. Leave them in your room safe.

Language

The indonesian language is very similar to Malaysian Malay. However there are distinct differences. Here are some translated words to help you along:

Motor - Motorcycles
Mobil - (pronounced mobeel), cars
Supir - driver. Can also mean to drive
Santai - relax
Sarapan - breakfast
Makan siang - lunch
Makan malam - dinner
Roomboy - Bellboy and the guys that you call for room service
Ojek - motorbikes that acts as personal taxi. Also to mean the bike driver. Just call ojek on any street and someone should respond to you to bring you around balai.
Balai - short name for tanjung balai.
kantor - office room
hp - pronounced ha-pay. Handphone
Pulsa - handphone credit or top up.
Pelabuhan - port
Wisma - cheap hotels. normally with common bathroom.
Capet - (pronounced cha pet) tired
Lantai - floor, lantai 1 = first/ground floor
Oplet - small vans that acts as buses.


If you have any questions, feel free to post and I will try to translate.

Hotels

There are about 60 hotels in Tanjung Balai, Karimun. I will post a list of them here.

  • Hotel Maximillian
    Jl. Nusantara
    Widely known as hotel Maxi, this is the best hotel in town. No question about it. It's facilities are about 3-4 stars standard but by Balai standard it is 5 stars! It recently had an upgrade and extension which includes more rooms, new dining area, conference room, massage and spa facilities, karaoke ktv lounge. The staff are well trained and friendly. The asst manager, Roni is always helpful.

  • Hotel Gabion
    Jl. Nusantara No. 45
    Tel: 0777-326222
    Standard hotel with no lifts. So quite a bit of a walk if you are on the 4th floor! Loong corridors too!

  • Hotel Wiko
    Newish hotel with a lot of facilities nearby. There is a food court right in front, Star pub with live band, massage centre, hair salon, etc.

  • Hotel Rasa Sayang
    Jl. Ampera
    Tel: 0777-323881
    Oldish hotel.

  • Hotel Paradise
    Jl. Setiabudi
    Tel: 0777-23111 /23222
    Pronounced as Parah dees. Many rooms. Good parking if you have cars. Quite extensive KTV rooms.

  • Hotel Padi Mas
    Jl. Pertambangan
    Tel: 0777- 325555

  • Hotel Holiday Karimun
    Jl. Trikora No. 1
    Tel: 0777-21065 / 21666

  • Hotel Paragon
    Jl. Nusantara N0. 38D
    Tel: 0777-21688

  • Hotel Pelangi
    Jl. Teuku Umar
    Tel: 0777- 23100 / 232000

  • Hotel Alishan
    Jl. Kapling Blok A No. 10
    Tel: 0777-324888

  • Hotel Erikson
    Jl. Kapling No. 1
    Tel: 0777-23123

  • Hotel Shangrilla
    Jl. Pramuka No. 62
    Tel: 0777-325325

  • Hotel Horizon
    Jl. Setiabudhi No. 15
    Tel: 0777-324008

  • Hotel Satria
    Jl. A. Yani No. 1A
    Tel: 0777-325888

  • Hotel Marina
    Jl. Pertambangan No. 108
    Tel: 0777-323888

  • Hotel Taman Bunga
    Jl. Yos Sudarso
    Tel: 0777-324088

  • Hotel Artha
    Jl. Pegadaian No.9
    Tel: 0777-31591 /31730

  • Hotel Asia
    Jl. Teuku Umar
    Tel: 0777-325678

  • Hotel Tanjung Balai
    Jl. Nusantara No. 127B
    Tel: 0777-22772

  • Hotel Royal
    Jl. Nusantara
    Tel: 0777-22225 / 22289

  • Hotel Top Star
    Jl. Setiabudi No. 1
    Tel: 0777-323868

  • Hotel Mitra Pesona
    Jl. Nusantara No. 15
    Tel: 0777-31456

  • Hotel Mirama
    Jl. A. Yani No. 8
    Tel: 0777-325818

  • Hotel Puri Indah
    Jl. Ampera
    Tel: 0777-326788

  • Hotel Gloria
    Jl. Yos Sudarso No. 46
    Tel: 0777-21133

  • Hotel Indah
    Jl. Nusantara No. 27
    Tel: 0777-21490

  • Hotel King Star
    Jl. Setiabudi No. 38
    Tel: 0777-22346 / 22348

  • Hotel Karimun
    Jl. Yos Sudarso
    Tel: 0777-21082 / 21088

  • Hotel Millenium
    This is more of a long term hotel than a daily hotel. I know locals who live here and pay rent on a monthly basis.
    Jl. Teuku Umar
    Tel: 0777-325333

  • Hotel Nirwana
    Jl. Nusantara No. 12A
    Tel: 0777-31820

  • Hotel Nusantara
    Jl. Nusantara
    Tel: 0777-31646
There's lots more...

Tanjung Balai

Tanjung Balai town. Crowded and cramped.
Tanjung Balai is the main town of the island. It's very compact and hectic. Most streets are one way streets and there are more motorcycles(motor) than cars(mobil).

This is a bustling town with a sizeable Chinese (Tionghua) community. As you can see a lot of buildings are built right into the sea via pilings.

Karimun island

Karimun island
Karimun island is a beautiful indonesian island near to Malaysia and Singapore. It's main town is TanjungBalai or Tanjung Balai. Look past the narrow and dirty streets and the staring locals and you will see a laid back and natural island with smiling people.

In January 2009, President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono inaugurated Free Trade Zone (FTZ) status on the island of Batam, Bintan and Karimun (BBK) in the Riau Islands Province. This is a very important to the future development of Karimun island.

Karimun island's proximity to Singapore(1.5 hour ferry ride) and Malaysia(1 hour ferry ride) makes it an important transport and business hub. It also connects to the smaller islands around the area as well as stops for the larger ships to Medan.