Alternative Obs sites?

[cloud_cover]

I know we usually make trips up to Punggai/Mersing
I wonder if anyone has experience with the Riau Islands? Batam/Bintan are clearly no-goes, but has anyone ever been to Singakep (which is in a black zone on the LP map) or Kundur (which is in a grey zone)
Both of them are reachable only via ferry from Tg Pinang (which means at least 1 transfer) and both have very scanty info on the internet.
Having said that, Singakep or Lingga (adjacent) does sound very interesting because other than the main city of Dabo, the LP map shows both islands to be in the black zone (i.e. dark sky)
Of course multiple ferry transfers means bringing heavy and bulky equipment is not such a good idea

[fizzy123]

I think you can consult weixing with regards to star-gazing in alternative obs sites. He have observed before at the Batam or Bintan area, so he should be more well versed and can furnish you with more answers.

I remembered during one of the ECP sessions, Clifford did mention that Batam have land bridges connecting all the surrounding smaller islands to the main island. However, when he spoke to the native guides with regards to usage of these islands for astro purposes, he is adviced not to for safety reasons.

[cloud_cover]

Yeah. The land bridges go out to Galang Batu at the very tip. Flying in from Jakarta I see no lights down there meaning no developments, so safety is an issue.
Place to consider is P. Penuba, a small island off P. Singkep, in a black zone and has guesthouses. However one needs to take 3 ferries to get there, meaning most of the day!