Thursday 4 July 2013

Time Freezes

Indonesia - Batam Island

Batam island, nothing more familiar to most Singaporeans.

Although Batam is one of Indonesia many islands, it seems more like Singapore's backyard.

It is about 50 minutes boat ride from Singapore.

Most Singaporeans will travel there for their cheap and delicious seafood.

One of my favourite seafood is the Gong Gong.

Gong Gong

Although Chinese was banned in Indonesia in the past, you can still find Chinese temples in Batam.


You do not have to be in Japan to go Nagoya to shop.


The first time that I went Batam was more than 20 years ago.

The second time was 10 years later and the last time was in 2006.

Something surprised me was that after decades, nothing much had changed on this island.

If you miss the good old days, you can visit Batam as its buildings resemble the old 60's in Singapore.

Checked-in to the same Batam View Beach Resort and everything remained the same as before.


Time seems to freeze and has no effect on this island.

A lot of places are busy upgrading themselves but Batam stands still as it is.

While the whole world is changing, is it good not to change?