Jakarta, June 18 -- The Transmigration Ministry (Kementrans) aims to develop the Batam, Rempang, and Galang (Barelang) area into a new integrated economic center, in partnership with the Tourism Ministry (Kemenpar).

The development project will highlight the region's marine tourism potential and local wisdom.

"We want to introduce the immense potential of Barelang, particularly its marine tourism," Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara remarked here on Wednesday.

He noted that the coastal areas and fishing villages in the region hold significant potential to be developed into a vibrant waterfront city.

The Barelang area benefits from its strategic location within the Batam Special Economic Zones (SEZ), abundant...