Batam tourism chief says Singapore's anti-vaping measures could be a boon

The Singapore Government's measures against vaping and treatment of it as a drug issue could be a potential boost for tourism in Batam, which is about an hour away by ferry from the island state.

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BATAM - The Singapore Government's measures against vaping and treatment of it as a drug issue could be a potential boost for tourism in Batam, which is about an hour away by ferry from the island state.

As a border town, Batam could become an alternative place for Singaporeans to enjoy the activity banned in their own country, an official said.

Batam Tourism Agency head Ardiwinata told The Jakarta Post on Aug 25 that every tight policy enacted by the Singapore Government would always push its citizens to look for a place with looser regulations.

"If there are strict regulations from the Singaporean Government, the public will have alternatives to enjoy them, with Batam being one of those alternatives," he said.

"As long as it does not violate our regulations, they can choose Batam."

Mr Ardiwinata, who goes by only one name, compared the potential benefits from Singapore's vaping ban with previous moves that proved to be beneficial to Batam.

The closure of several public golf courses in Singapore, for example, has made Batam a favourite destination for golfers.

Similar things also happened to other sports, such as badminton, basketball and pickleball, with courts in Batam flooded by Singaporean teams.