DK-Tanjungpinang – Governor of the Riau Islands Ansar Ahmad denied rumors that the Gurindam 12 waterfront in Tanjungpinang was fully leased to private companies.
He confirmed the iconic public space will remain free for visitors.
Ansar spoke during a morning broadcast on RRI Tanjungpinang to address public concern spread on social media. He said only a small part of the area is managed by private operators.
Out of 148,600 square meters, only 7,450 sqm or about 5% is leased. This includes four culinary outlets—Dugong, Dingkis, Gong-gong, and Napoleon—and one parking lot.
“We are developing Gurindam 12 step by step due to budget limits. Four branded outlets will involve private partners. The public park remains free,” Ansar said.
He also stressed there will be no entry tickets and no parking charges. The government wants Gurindam 12 to be a clean and attractive tourism hub.
Ongoing Projects
The Public Works Office is building a jogging track, a sunset podium, and new roads under a program from President Prabowo Subianto.
The Tourism Office announced a Tourism Creation Center will be built next to the LAM building. It will serve as an information and creative hub.
Tourism Chief Hasan said foreign visitors to Riau Islands reached 1.085 million by July 2025, while domestic tourists hit 2.5 million. He believes events at Gurindam 12 will help achieve targets.
Public Commitment
Governor Ansar urged the community to filter information and support development. He compared the project to other revitalizations, such as Akau Potong Lembu, the Old Town, and Penyengat Island.
He reaffirmed Gurindam 12 will stay a free, inclusive, and safe public space, strengthening Tanjungpinang as the capital of the Riau Islands.
