The government of former President Joko Widodo designated Rempang Eco City as a national strategic project, which led to the displacement of local communities from the end of 2023.

“On behalf of the government, let me apologize for the past mistreatment,” Suryanagara stated, “transmigration should be voluntary, it is understandable that they were opposed to relocation.”

The minister acknowledged that the government’s approach was inappropriate and insensitive to the rights of the affected communities.

He clarified that land use on the island is overseen by the Batam Development Authority and that many residents were considered squatters due to lack of formal ownership documents.

The conflict escalated in September 2023, when police used tear gas to disperse residents blocking land surveying and delimitation by local authorities.

The police response generated criticism and debate over land rights, indigenous communities and development priorities. ef/abo/mem/asg/liz