Deepavali holiday lifts hotel and restaurant demand in Batam
Tourists from Malaysia and Singapore visited for family holidays, with Indonesian food and shopping among the attractions.
An influx of Malaysian and Singaporean holidaymakers celebrating Deepavali has left some Batam hotels fully occupied and restaurants full, according to the Indonesian city's tourism chief, Ardiwinata. The visitors have increased activity across accommodation and dining businesses in the Riau Islands destination.
Speaking to CNBC Indonesia in comments cited on 15 November 2026, Ardiwinata said many travellers had chosen Batam for a family holiday. Their activities ranged from food outings and sport to cultural attractions, bazaars and nature visits. Business events were also part of the mix.
Ardiwinata said the city's different hotel types offered visitors a wide choice of accommodation to suit their holiday activities. Shopping was another attraction for travellers from the neighbouring countries, with competitive prices for goods and services drawing interest.
Indonesian cuisine also brought tourists to local dining venues, including Padang restaurants, he said. He named Padang rendang and ayam penyet as examples of dishes Malaysian visitors enjoy and can find in Batam.
