The upcoming Nongsa Digital Economy Hub in Batam, Indonesia, is jointly undertaken by two of Indonesian leading developers, Sinar Mas Land and Citramas Group. Surbana Jurong has been selected by the joint venture as the masterplanner for the project.
The new hub is envisioned to be a digital bridge between Indonesia and Singapore, to attract start-ups, local and international companies undertaking digital-related activities to set up in Indonesia. It is strategically located in the Nongsa district, about 30 minutes from Singapore by ferry and 15 minutes from the Hang Nadim international airport.
Surbana Jurong’s work includes the development of a concept masterplan of the hub that occupies a total area of 62 ha, comprising an Eco Digital Project, the Nuvasa Bay Town Centre, and the Nongsa Digital Park (NDP). The consultancy scope covers urban design and architectural conceptualisation.
With technology and creative industries as key drivers of Indonesia’s economy, the digital economy hub in Nongsa is expected to contribute directly to strengthening Indonesia’s tech and innovation talent pool, job creation and revolving door commerce. It also offers Singapore-based companies opportunities to work with local Indonesian talent and grow their tech businesses, leveraging on complementary strengths.
Mike Wiluan, president director of Sinar Mas Land – Citramas Group JV said, “The appointment of Surbana Jurong as our masterplanner is another step in a forward-looking journey that both Citramas and Sinar Mas have been committed to since our tie-up last year. With this appointment, we are able to eloquently materialise our long-term vision to turn Nongsa into a next-generation destination, in tune with the region’s emerging prowess in digital commerce, creativity and connectivity.
“Starting with NDP, the vision of a larger ecosystem will incorporate all aspects of work, live and play with a focus towards Indonesia and Singapore’s combined strategy of developing mutual and complimentary digital economy sectors. Batam is a gateway between Singapore and Indonesia. The NDP and its surrounding real estate aim to be the launch pad for both country’s growth needs and market expansion.”
Wong Heang Fine, group CEO of Surbana Jurong commented, “We are privileged to have the opportunity to contribute our masterplanning expertise to the Sinar Mas Land - Citramas Group JV for their joint project in Nongsa. Our strong track record in developing masterplans for projects in over 30 countries enables us to understand and meet the requirements of Nongsa development. For this project, we are pleased that our creative vision aligns well with the desired market positioning which the JV has. We look forward to delivering well to this project, which is expected to further transform Nongsa into a vibrant and sustainable economic and cultural business hub.”
Dr Beh Swan Gin, chairman of Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB) added, “Congratulations to Surbana Jurong on being appointed as the master planner by the Sinar Mas Land – Citramas Group JV for their joint project in Nongsa. A well-designed masterplan plays an important role in attracting investors, businesses, workers, residents and visitors. With its vast experience and expertise, Surbana Jurong will be able to contribute to the development of Nongsa as an exciting work-live-play location that is only 30 minutes away by ferry from Singapore.
“This project will complement the NDP, which was launched in March 2018 by Singapore’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan and Indonesia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi. We will work with Sinar Mas Land and Citramas Group to grow Nongsa into a vibrant digital hub that will serve as a digital bridge between Indonesia and Singapore.”
