JAKARTA: Surging fuel costs as a result of the United States-Israeli war on Iran have forced a cutback in ferry services between Batam, Riau Islands, and neighboUring Singapore. Batam Fast, one of the major ferry providers on the route, has reportedly cut its services by about 40 per cent. “We are working closely with other ferry operators. In addition to cutting trip frequencies, ferry operators have also raised fares to cushion the impact of rising fuel costs. Despite fewer ferry services and higher ticket prices, Batam continues to attract a growing number of Singaporean visitors, many of whom are drawn by the island’s relatively low cost of groceries and daily necessities amid rising prices at home.

Source: The Star April 09, 2026 13:50 UTC