Inp.polri.go.id - Batam.  The Immigration Office at Batam's Immigration Checkpoint, Riau Islands, has tightened international entry points during the 2024 elections as a precautionary measure against unauthorized or illegal foreign media coverage. Kharisma Rukmana, the Head of Information and Communication Section at Batam's Immigration Office, said on Tuesday (13/2/2024) that any foreign journalists intending to cover the elections are allowed to enter Indonesia on the condition of possessing a C-5 visitor visa for a single 60-day trip. Precautions against foreign journalists entering Indonesia using tourist visas are also taken by Immigration through in-depth interviews with foreign nationals suspected of being journalists or carrying media coverage equipment, antaranews.com reported. "If indications are found during the interview that the individual will engage in activities not in line with their visa, Immigration will deport them to their home country or report them to the intelligence and immigration enforcement departments for further action," Kharisma said. He urged the public to report any foreign journalists found without a C-5 visa or suspected foreign individuals to the Foreigner Supervision Team consisting of Immigration, the Military, the Police, the Regional Intelligence Agency, and the the Unity and Political Affairs Agency. "This is to ensure that the elections in Indonesia, especially in Batam City, proceed smoothly and peacefully," Kharisma added. (ar/inp/pr/nm)