How to Travel from Malaysia to Batam Stress-Free
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Travelling to Batam is already a breeze thanks to Berjaya Waterfront. But if it’s your first time, not knowing the peak tourist seasons or struggling last-minute with eVisa and arrival forms can easily put a dampener on your getaway.
Here’s a quick guide to help you avoid the stress and make the most of your trip, whether you’re travelling from Kuala Lumpur, Johor, or anywhere else in Malaysia.
1. Check peak travel periods in Malaysia AND Batam.
Malaysians already know to avoid travelling during the start of school holidays, long weekends, and major festivals like Chinese New Year and Hari Raya. It’s always a good idea to check a holiday calendar so you don’t find yourself stuck on the highway.
Batam’s peak travel season runs from May to September, during the dry months. While that’s the best time to travel to Batam for sunny island weather, remember that Singaporeans often flock to the island on their public holidays — so ferries and hotels can fill up quickly.
Depending on how you feel about crowds, you may want to check Singaporean public holidays before booking your trip.
2. Fill in your Indonesian e-Visa and Arrival Card ahead of time
Image screencapped from All Indonesia, Directorate General of Immigration Republic of Indonesia
Good news: Malaysian tourists don’t require a visa to enter Indonesia. Be that the case though, you’ll still need to complete two quick online forms - the Indonesia e-Visa and the All Indonesia Arrival Card - before you go.
Ideally, you should have your travel arrangements and hotel booked before starting on the forms.
Here’s how to fill in the Indonesia e-Visa:
Step 1: Prepare a photo or scan of your passport and ID headshot photo (JPEG or PNG only)
Step 2: Open the e-Visa website linked here
Step 3: Follow the step-by-step instructions
Step 4: Receive an email upon successful approval
Here’s how to fill in the All Indonesia Arrival Card:
Step 1: Open the All Indonesia Arrival Card website
Step 2: Fill in travel information
Step 3: Receive a QR code via email
Step 4: Save the QR code on your phone for easy transit through immigration
You can fill in the Arrival Card up to 72 hours (3 days) before your arrival for quick and easy clearance through immigration.
3. Optimise your journey to Berjaya Waterfront
Photo source: KTM Berhad via Facebook
f you’re coming from outside Johor, you can reach Berjaya Waterfront by car, bus, or KTM train. Most intercity buses and trains stop at Johor Bahru Sentral, which is just a short Grab ride away from Berjaya Waterfront.
If you’re driving, make the drive more enjoyable by turning it into a food trip or road trip of the most underrated towns in Johor. Don’t forget to stop by at the best R&Rs in Johor as well!
Pro Tip: Park your car in the multi-level parking lot inside Berjaya Waterfront, not the open-air lot outside. It’s safer and a lot cheaper, at RM5 per day.
On top of that, the ETS to Johor Bahru is slated for completion by early 2026 - making travel down south easier and more comfortable than ever.
Bonus Tip: Book your ferry tickets online
Photo Source : @UiHua Cheah
Skip the queues by booking your ferry tickets online via Berjaya Waterfront’s official site. Online booking secures your seat and helps you plan your itinerary with confidence.
Don’t worry if you forgot an essential item too - Berjaya Waterfront is also a mall with an entertainment zone. So whether it’s shopping for essentials, Duty-Free, or just chilling at the kopitiam after a long drive, you can de-stress yourself right before your trip.
With a little planning — and a smooth start from Berjaya Waterfront Ferry Terminal — your trip to Batam can be as relaxing as the island itself.