Shhh! Be silent at Batam immigration queue

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http://www.straitstimes.com/news/singapore/more-singapore-stories/story/shhh-be-silent-batam-immigration-queue-or-be-sent-back-h

Thud, thud, silence, and again, thud, thud.

These days only the sound of officers stamping passports breaks the quiet at the immigration queue at the Batam Centre International Ferry Terminal.

Ferry passengers from Singapore and Malaysia, one moment boisterous and chatty after disembarking, automatically zip their lips when they enter. To speak, even in a whisper, could lead to deportation - and ruined holiday plans.

Ferry operators and passengers told The Sunday Times that Batam immigration officers have recently begun enforcing silence strictly.