Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Indonesia law
Cannabis laws in Batam Island follow Indonesia’s national law. For travelers, the jurisdiction’s law is the controlling standard—cities usually don’t define cannabis legality.
Recreational and medical cannabis are illegal. Enforcement is strict, and penalties for possession can be severe. Travelers face significant legal risk.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Not available
- Possession: Illegal; severe penalties possible
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: High enforcement risk
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Law Enforcement
After the casinos closed, it felt like the police on Batam turned their attention to narcotics. I worried about being set up and heard stories of six to ten months in prison over a joint, and of the Narkoba police demanding a lot of money from foreigners. I couldn’t verify the figures.
Where to Buy Marijuana
The names that came up were ojeks, the motorcycle taxis, and women working in the nightlife scene. I was wary about who I spoke to.
Marijuana Prices
Rp 250,000 was the quote for 150–250 grams, with plenty of sticks and seeds included in that weight.
Types of Marijuana
All I saw was low-grade schwag. “The quality is pretty shitty.”
More Information
I kept where I was staying to myself. I worried a seller could pass the address to the Narkoba police.