Spreading Joy of Ramadhan with Takjil Sharing by Tunas Industrial

Batam, March 8, 2025 – What better way to spread joy and unity during Ramadan than by sharing a simple yet meaningful gesture like takjil? On March 4th, 2025, in celebration of the holy month, the Tunas HR Department made a heartfelt effort to show love and kindness by distributing takjil to passersby near the front gate of Tunas Industrial Batam Center.

This initiative is part of the company’s commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), aimed at giving back to the community during the holy month of Ramadan. The act of distributing takjil – traditional light meals served to break the fast – is not only a symbol of generosity but also a reminder of the importance of kindness, compassion, and solidarity.

 

A Tradition of Giving Back

Ramadan is a time of reflection, self-discipline, and charity. For many, it is also a month of connecting with others and giving as one of the fundamental principles of Ramadan. Recognizing this, Tunas HR Department took the opportunity to engage in a CSR activity that directly benefits the local community. By providing takjil to those in need, we hope to foster a sense of community and strengthen the bonds of solidarity across different backgrounds.

“We wanted to contribute in a meaningful way and bring joy to the people around us,” said Edi Effendi, the head of the HR Department. “In the spirit of Ramadan, a small act like sharing takjil can create a big impact. It’s our way of showing appreciation for the support we’ve received from the community throughout the year.”

 

Strengthening Bonds of Solidarity

The act of sharing takjil not only nourishes the body but also nurtures relationships between Tunas and the community. As employees and residents gathered around the front gate of Tunas Industrial Batam Center, the simple act of giving became a powerful tool for building unity.

The company’s initiative was met with heartfelt appreciation. After a long day of fasting and work, the takjil distribution brought smiles to many faces. It wasn’t just about fasting during Ramadan; it was a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing and spreading kindness to others, making the day a little brighter for everyone.

 

Looking Forward

The success of this CSR activity has inspired us to continue finding ways to contribute to the community, not just during Ramadan, but throughout the year. With plans for future initiatives aimed at addressing local needs, our company remains committed to strengthening its relationship with the Batam community and beyond.

Through acts of kindness like the sharing of takjil, Tunas Industrial hopes to set an example of how businesses can play an active role in enriching the lives of those around them. The gesture may be small, but its impact is certainly felt far and wide. Let us all continue this spirit of giving and kindness, and spread joy to those around us, especially during this blessed month of Ramadan.

Understanding Ramadan: Its Significance and Impact on Indonesian Society

Batam, March 6, 2025 – Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, holds profound significance for Indonesia, the country with the world’s largest Muslim population. This sacred month, while primarily a time for religious reflection, also deeply influences the social, cultural, and economic dynamics of the nation. In Indonesia, Ramadan is not only a time of fasting but also a period that strengthens bonds, fosters charity, and impacts various aspects of daily life. This article explores what Ramadan means for Indonesia, its importance, and the impact it has on Indonesian society.

 

Family and Community Bonds

A unique and cherished aspect of Ramadan in Indonesia is its remarkable ability to foster a sense of togetherness and strengthen bonds within families and communities. The communal nature of fasting allows families to unite and share in the experience, making the month even more special. In the evenings, families or friends gather to break their fast with a meal known as iftar or bukber (breaking fast together). This shared experience deepens the sense of unity and connection. Many also take this time to visit extended family members or friends, exchanging good wishes and enjoying meals together.

Community life thrives during Ramadan. Evening taraweeh prayers at mosques often attract large crowds, creating a sense of unity and collective worship. In towns and villages, traditional Ramadan activities such as takbiran (the chanting of the Takbir to mark the start of Eid) and sahur (pre-dawn meal) are conducted as part of the festive rituals, reinforcing the importance of solidarity in both worship and daily life.

 

Ramadan and Economic Impact

While Ramadan is a deeply spiritual occasion, it also has significant economic implications for Indonesia. The holy month brings changes in consumer behavior, especially in the retail and food sectors.

In the weeks leading up to Ramadan, many businesses see a surge in demand for goods such as clothing, food, and gifts, as Indonesians prepare for the fasting month and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya), the festival marking the end of Ramadan. Markets are filled with special Ramadan promotions, food stalls, and street vendors selling traditional treats that are enjoyed during the month, such as kolak (sweet dessert made from bananas, coconut milk, and palm sugar), kurma (dates), and various savory snacks.

One of the most iconic traditions associated with Ramadan in Indonesia is Mudik, the annual homecoming journey that millions of city dwellers undertake to reunite with their families in rural areas for Eid al-Fitr. This mass migration, which peaks during the two weeks leading up to Eid, not only strengthens familial bonds but also plays a crucial role in stimulating the transportation, retail, and hospitality sectors. It’s one of the largest human migrations globally, creating both economic opportunities and a sense of national unity.

 

Cultural Traditions During Ramadan

Food holds a special cultural significance during Ramadan. From the pre-dawn meal sahur to the evening iftar, Indonesian households and street vendors offer an array of traditional foods, bringing people together over shared meals. Street markets bustle with vendors selling takjil—light snacks to break the fast—and delicacies such as kolak and nasi uduk, reflecting the diverse culinary heritage of the archipelago.

 

Ramadan in Indonesia is also a time to celebrate the country’s rich cultural diversity. Non-Muslim communities often show great respect for their Muslim neighbors’ fasting practices, and it’s not uncommon for different faiths to participate in the spirit of the season by contributing to charitable causes or joining in festive events. This mutual respect fosters a sense of national solidarity and highlights the country’s commitment to religious tolerance.

 

The End of Ramadan: Eid al-Fitr and THR

Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya), the celebration marking the end of Ramadan, is one of the most important holidays in Indonesia. It is a national holiday and is widely celebrated by people from all walks of life. It’s a time for forgiveness, family reunions, and expressing gratitude for the strength and patience shown during the month of fasting.

 

A key component of the Eid celebrations is Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR), the annual holiday bonus that employers provide to their employees. According to the Undang-Undang Cipta Kerja (Omnibus Law), specifically Article 81, Number 28, Perppu Cipta Kerja which amends Pasal 88E UU Ketenagakerjaan, Tunjangan Hari Raya (THR) is one of the employee rights guaranteed by the employment regulations in Indonesia. This tradition not only brings financial relief but also allows Indonesians to enjoy a more comfortable celebration with family and friends. Many workers eagerly anticipate their THR, which plays a crucial role in making the Eid festivities more joyful for those of modest means.

Duration of Service	THR Amount
1 Month	Pro-rata, based on months worked
12 Month	1 month salary

Ramadan in Indonesia is more than a time of fasting—it is a profound cultural and societal experience that touches every aspect of life. From spiritual reflection to familial bonds, from economic impacts to cultural traditions, Ramadan serves as a reminder of the values that unite Indonesians in faith and in life. It is a time of personal growth, compassion, and shared joy, making it a defining feature of Indonesian identity. Ramadan is not only a month of fasting but also a celebration of life, faith, and togetherness.

Batam’s Labor Landscape: Unlocking Opportunities

Batam, strategically located near Singapore and Malaysia, is rapidly establishing itself as one of Indonesia’s foremost industrial and investment hubs. For businesses and investors aiming to penetrate Southeast Asian markets, a thorough understanding of Batam’s labor market, competitive wage structures, and regulatory environment is essential. This article explores the key elements that make Batam a compelling destination for business expansion.

A Dynamic Workforce Demographic

Batam’s workforce is youthful, skilled, and growing rapidly, with a labor force participation rate of 70%. Many workers are under 35, bringing energy and adaptability to industries like manufacturing and technology. The city’s industrial growth has developed a labor pool experienced in maintaining global standards, particularly in electronics, shipbuilding, and automotive sectors. This makes Batam an attractive hub for businesses looking to tap into Southeast Asia’s markets.

In addition to local talent, Batam attracts foreign professionals, particularly from Singapore, China, and Europe. These foreign workers bring specialized skills, contributing to high-tech and strategic industries. Their presence complements local talent, filling critical roles and enhancing Batam’s competitive edge in industries such as manufacturing and technology.

Key Industries Driving Employment

Manufacturing is the primary driver of Batam’s economy, employing the largest portion of the workforce. The electronics industry, in particular, has seen significant growth due to the city’s focus on technology-driven production. Other key sectors, like automotive and consumer goods manufacturing, also contribute to job creation and skill development for the local population.

While manufacturing remains dominant, Batam’s economy is diversifying into services, trade, and tourism. The growing hospitality and tourism sectors, fueled by visitors from neighboring countries, are creating new employment opportunities and expanding the city’s economic potential beyond its industrial roots. This diversification opens up new avenues for investors and businesses seeking to tap into Batam’s evolving landscape.

Competitive Wage Structure

One of the key advantages of operating in Batam is its competitive labor cost. In 2024, the minimum wage in Batam was set at Rp 4,685,050 per month for a 40-hour workweek. This wage level strikes a balance between ensuring worker welfare and maintaining business competitiveness, allowing companies to access a productive labor force without the high operational costs often associated with major cities like Jakarta or Surabaya.

The minimum wage policy in Batam is shaped by various economic factors, including inflation, economic growth, and the cost of living. In 2024, the determination of the minimum wage has garnered attention as the government collaborates with labor unions to establish a fair wage that supports both employee welfare and the economic viability of businesses. This cooperative approach aims to foster a stable labor market while encouraging investment in the region.

 

When compared to other regions in Indonesia, Batam’s minimum wage positions it in the middle tier. For example, while DKI Jakarta’s minimum wage is higher at Rp 5,067,381 per month, regions like Bekasi City and Karawang lead the country with minimum wages reaching Rp 5,343,430. This ranking illustrates that while Batam offers competitive wages, it remains manageable for businesses, ensuring that the region continues to attract investment.

Workforce Regulations and Labor Protections

Indonesia’s labor laws are designed to protect workers while facilitating efficient business operations. Overtime work is regulated with specific calculations to ensure fair compensation, where overtime wages are based on an employee’s base salary divided by 173 hours for a standard work month. This clarity helps maintain worker satisfaction and productivity, providing stability for businesses.

 

In Batam, industries like electronics manufacturing and logistics often operate on a three-shift system to maximize productivity, typically consisting of three 8-hour shifts for 24/7 operations. Some companies may also use a two-shift system with 12-hour shifts over a 6-day workweek. To support night shift workers, businesses often provide incentives like snacks and drinks to help maintain their energy levels.

 

A crucial aspect of Batam’s labor environment is the comprehensive social security system managed by BPJS, which includes BPJS Kesehatan for health insurance and BPJS Ketenagakerjaan for employment protection. This system ensures workers have access to healthcare and support in case of workplace accidents, contributing to workforce stability.

Recruitment Trends and Talent Availability

Batam’s labor market is dynamic, with diverse recruitment channels for both blue-collar and white-collar job roles. For blue-collar positions, companies primarily utilize local job portals, social media, and HR outreach to attract skilled workers, reflecting the high demand in sectors like manufacturing, construction, and assembly. In contrast, white-collar recruitment, especially for managerial roles, often involves professional platforms like LinkedIn and headhunters, ensuring access to top-tier talent. For critical positions, companies may even recruit expatriates from their head offices to bring in specialized expertise.

A unique aspect of Batam’s workforce is its multilingual capabilities, particularly in Mandarin. Many locals possess basic Mandarin skills, which is advantageous for businesses engaged in trade with Mandarin-speaking markets, such as China. The presence of a sizable Chinese community and Mandarin language programs in schools enhance this linguistic skill among the population. This capability not only fosters smooth international business relationships but also positions Batam as a multicultural city ready to connect local workers with the global job market.

How Batam and Singapore Drive Regional Business

The dynamic partnership between Batam and Singapore is transforming the regional business landscape. Leveraging its status as a Free Trade Zone and proximity to Singapore, Batam has transformed into Indonesia’s leading industrial and tourism hub in Southeast Asia. This proves how seamless connectivity and strategic investments can drive the economic prosperity of both countries. Check out our new insight to learn more how Batam and Singapore drive the regional business!

Batam: A strategic hub for business and tourism

Batam, located 20 kilometers from Singapore, is a fast-growing industrial and tourism hub in Southeast Asia. As a Free Trade Zone, Batam offers tax incentives and a streamlined investment process, highly attractive to foreign businesses, especially from Singapore. With modern infrastructure, industrial zones, and beautiful nature, Batam is a prime spot for manufacturing and tourism.

Seamless Accessibility and Connectivity

The close proximity of Batam-Singapore is easily accessible with a 45-minute ferry ride. Frequent and affordable services are available connecting SG’s HarbourFront and Tanah Merah terminals to four terminals in Batam (Sekupang, Batam Center, Harbour Bay, Nongsapura), with more than 180 trips daily. Enhancing seamless connectivity to support regional businesses.

Tourism-Driven Opportunities

Beyond industry, Batam is a top destination for Singaporeans looking for a weekend getaway or a long vacation. Batam offers attractions like golf courses, outdoor activities, a variety of culinary delights, wellness spas, and many shopping centers. Travelers from Singapore account for 85% of all foreign visitors each year. This influx of tourists drives demand in hospitality, retail and services, providing additional business opportunities.

Foreign Investment and Future Growth

The partnership between Batam and Singapore has played a key role in Batam’s development. Since 2018, Singapore has consistently been the top FDI contributor, focusing on industries like manufacturing, electronics, logistics, and real estate. In Q1 2024, Singapore invested Rp 3.6 trillion out of Batam’s total Rp 5.73 trillion FDI, along with contributions from China and Japan. Batam continues to attract global investors, driven by its favorable investment environment and expanding infrastructure. Singapore’s ongoing investments reflect its confidence in Batam’s growth potential and regional importance.

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As Batam continues to develop as a prime business hub, Tunas Industrial emerges as a top industrial estate, offering an ideal platform for business expansion in Batam. Tunas Industrial offers strategic advantages, including access to modern facilities, excellent connectivity, and comprehensive support for companies looking to grow in this thriving market. Contact us for more information.

Tunas Industrial Presents The First Green Industrial Estate In Batam

Tunas Industrial Presents The First Eco-Friendly Industrial Estate Powered By 100% Clean Energy in Batam

The escalating competition across every business sector, coupled with the global challenges post the Covid-19 pandemic, has significantly impacted the Supply Chain faced by many companies. Addressing this issue is imperative to ensure smooth operational business activities. Therefore, prudent considerations are required before embarking on any strategic business expansion.

Moreover, another critical issue that demands attention is the global phenomenon of climate change occurring worldwide. Many countries, including Indonesia, have actively implemented policies aimed at combating the impacts of extreme climate changes. Carbon emissions resulting from industrial activities stand as one of the contributing factors. Ensuring that business growth and environmental sustainability coexist has become a focal point for numerous business players.

In response to this need, the Tunas Group has pioneered an innovative breakthrough through its latest industrial estate project, the Tunas Prima Industrial Estate. The Tunas Group is a renowned property developer in Batam, having successfully developed industrial estates in Batam and Jabodetabek with a total land area of 250 hectares. The construction of Tunas Prima Industrial Estate officially commenced at the Groundbreaking Ceremony on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. The event will take place at the project location situated on Hasanuddin Street, Kabil, Batam, Riau Islands.

Spanning an expansive 100 hectares, Tunas Prima Industrial Estate marks a groundbreaking achievement as the first industrial estate in Indonesia aiming to achieve certification under the Green Mark For District, issued by the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) of Singapore, and the Greenship Neighborhood certificate issued by the Green Building Council Indonesia (GBCI). This new project offers modern industrial spaces adopting a ‘Sustainable Future’ approach. Its aim is to mitigate environmental impacts through a strategic partnership with PLN Batam, ensuring a 100% Clean Energy supply to Tunas Prima Industrial Estate derived from Renewable Energy sources, complemented by Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Furthermore, it entails the establishment of integrated green infrastructure, optimizing resource usage efficiency, and implementing water security management.

This industrial estate development is anticipated to attract foreign investments of up to 20 trillion Indonesian Rupiah and generate employment for up to 15,000 people. Through the introduction of the Tunas Prima Industrial Estate project, the Tunas Group endeavors to promote sustainable and environmentally-friendly business growth, as well as attract a greater number of international investors to Batam, positioning it as a leading industrial hub in Southeast Asia.

About Tunas Group:

Established in 2000, the Tunas Group is an Indonesian company headquartered in Batam City, focusing on real estate, industrial, and commercial development. The Tunas Batam Centre Industrial Estate was the inaugural project launched to meet the high demand for industrial land and buildings from both local and international investors, including neighboring countries like Singapore and Malaysia. The Tunas Group continues to seek opportunities to expand its portfolio in Batam City and Greater Jakarta. Currently, its extensive portfolio encompasses industrial property projects covering nearly 200 hectares in Batam and Greater Jakarta, along with commercial real estate spanning 100 hectares in Batam, and the largest shopping center in Batam.