Bintan Regency ranks as the second-largest contributor with approximately 8.65 percent, followed by Tanjungpinang City at around 6.98 percent.
Meanwhile, Natuna’s share has declined to 6.40 percent due to fluctuations in the oil and gas sector. Karimun remains relatively stable at around 5 percent, while Anambas contributes approximately 5.27 percent. Lingga Regency continues to have the smallest share of the provincial economy at roughly 1.5 percent.
More Balanced Growth Remains the Next Challenge
Despite the strong recovery, Bank Indonesia believes the province’s biggest challenge going forward is ensuring that economic growth becomes more evenly distributed across all regions.
While Batam’s dominance has become one of the province’s greatest strengths, it also presents a significant risk. Any slowdown in Batam’s industrial or investment activities would have a substantial impact on the overall provincial economy.
To reduce this dependence, the development of new growth centers outside Batam will be essential. This strategy includes strengthening key sectors such as oil and gas, fisheries, tourism, the maritime economy, while expanding investment and accelerating infrastructure development.
With a stronger recovery foundation and rising investment, the Riau Islands are well-positioned to maintain their status as one of the fastest-growing provinces in western Indonesia and further strengthen their role as a strategic investment gateway bordering Singapore and Malaysia.
By: Iman Suryanto
