Batam is one of the largest islands in the Riau archipelago. Like many islands in the region, it was once an underdeveloped island, but after the declaration of free trade in 1989, the island was completely converted into a tourist destination and business district, in a very short time frame. Its strategic location close to the Malacca Strait and Singapore has made Batam one of the biggest ports of Southeast Asia and a major center of international trade, industry and commerce. Despite its many luxurious hotels, Batam is still considered as a transit destination or entry point to Singapore. On the other hand it\'s a great place to get your hands on affordable electronics.