RRI.CO.ID, Batam – The Batam City Administration in Riau Islands Province has announced a significant milestone in regional trade, confirming that 20 local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have successfully expanded their reach into international markets, specifically Johor Bahru, Malaysia.

This achievement serves as a key indicator of the rising competitiveness and quality of Batam’s local products on the global stage. Head of the Batam City Cooperative and Micro Business Agency, Salim, revealed the data during the opening of the 2026 Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran and Hadis (MTQH) MSME Bazaar on Friday, April 10, 2026.

He noted that the exported goods range from traditional delicacies to high-end crafts. “The 20 MSMEs we have recorded exporting to Johor Bahru include products such as koleh-koleh Malay cakes, traditional village chips, Jqueen chocolate puffs, handcrafted bags, and various other souvenirs,” Salim said, as quoted by Antara.

The ongoing bazaar, featuring 150 micro-businesses, is not merely a commercial event but a competitive exhibition supported by the Family Welfare Movement (TP-PKK) and various district representatives. Beyond sales, the event provides essential public services, including on-site business permit processing to help local entrepreneurs formalize their operations.

The shift toward modern, eco-conscious consumerism is also evident among Batam’s entrepreneurs. Iluh, one of the featured MSME owners, highlighted her transition into the green economy by transforming recycled materials into luxury items.

“We produce knitted bags. What started as standard knitting has now evolved into a sustainable venture by utilizing recycled materials, specifically can tabs,” she explained.

Iluh further noted that an export acceleration program by the Creative Economy Ministry has helped her tap into the lucrative tourist markets of Singapore and Malaysia.

Batam Mayor, Amsakar Achmad, emphasized that the empowerment of the MSME sector remains a cornerstone of the city’s economic strategy. He argued that growth must be driven by substantive support rather than just ceremonial exhibitions.

“We must focus on how we empower MSME players to move the economy and improve welfare. That is what we continue to push,” said the Mayor.

To ensure long-term success, Mayor Amsakar called for direct intervention from administration agencies in areas such as business management, capital access, and marketing. He urged entrepreneurs to utilize the Integrated Business Service Center (PLUT) to refine product packaging and meet legal requirements, including Business Identification Numbers (NIB), Home Industry Food Certificates (PIRT), and Halal certification.

“It shouldn't just be about exhibitions, there must be continuous improvement. The growth chart must trend upward year after year,” he concluded. ***