Jamie McIntyre, prominent Australian property developer and founder of the independent media platform Australian National Review, is best known for his role in developing the multi-billion-dollar project in Lombok, Indonesia. Now, the soon-to-be billionaire is expanding his vision to include three additional planned eco-mini cities across Indonesia — and has hinted at an even bigger idea: building a modern city near Singapore.
In recent remarks, McIntyre suggested that Batam, Indonesia, could have been a worthy contender for the nation’s new capital city. Located just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Batam boasts strategic advantages as a potential economic powerhouse. McIntyre believes the island could be transformed into a modern, master-planned urban hub that’s not only affordable for residents but also a magnet for global expats.
“A modern city close to Singapore, with strong shipping and logistics infrastructure and a major international airport hub, could be a game-changer,” McIntyre said. “It’s about creating a city that’s globally connected, highly liveable, and attractive to people from around the world who are looking for a better quality of life at a more affordable cost.”
McIntyre’s track record in large-scale development — including the $6 billion Marina Bay City project in Lombok and several planned mini-cities — has given weight to his statements. He says he is “certainly open” to building more cities across Asia, with Batam and other strategic locations near Singapore ranking high on his list of possibilities.
As Indonesia continues to attract foreign investment and diversify its economic hubs, McIntyre’s interest in Batam reflects a growing trend of visionary developers eyeing Southeast Asia’s most promising urban frontiers.
