Tanjung Pinang – Riau Islands Capital and Sultanate Heritage
Tanjung Pinang is an independent city, capital of Riau Islands province, on Bintan Island. The city is an important site of the former Riau-Lingga Sultanate; on nearby Penyengat Island, sultanate palace ruins and a historical mosque can be found. Tanjung Pinang has ferry connections with Singapore.
Attractions and Activities
Penyengat Island with sultanate palace ruins, Masjid Raya mosque and historical graves. Senggarang Chinese temple (Vihara Dharma Sasana) with banyan trees standing in water. Tanjung Pinang ocean market (Pasar Ikan). Bintan Island resorts (eastern coast).
Culture and Cuisine
Malay culture is defining, sultanate heritage is alive. Cuisine: otak-otak (fish paste in banana leaf), mie tarempa, gonggong (local shellfish), and luti gendang.
Public Safety
Tanjung Pinang is safe. Medical care: town hospital.
Practical Information
Raja Haji Fisabilillah Airport with flights to Jakarta, Batam and other cities. Ferry from Singapore via Batam. Accommodation: hotels in town, resorts on Bintan’s eastern coast.