Each region in Sumatra has its own advantages and potentials. If synergized with mature and integrated planning, it will accelerate economic development and growthPekanbaru, Riau (ANTARA) - West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi has said that the accelerated development of Sumatra Island will require integrated planning from the 10 provincial governments in the region so that it can be realized quickly.
"Each region in Sumatra has its own advantages and potentials. If synergized with mature and integrated planning, it will accelerate economic development and growth," he explained during a coordination meeting of all Sumatran governors in Pekanbaru, Riau province, on Thursday.
According to Mahyeldi, each local government seems to be running on its own path, and there might be competition in port construction, which could potentially hinder regional economic growth.
This issue needs to be addressed considering global developments involving superpowers such as the US and China, and it should have been anticipated from the start, he said.
"Therefore, in this meeting, we propose integrated joint planning as soon as possible. This proposal will also be a recommendation submitted to the central government because anything cannot work without the center's support," he added.
Meanwhile, the host of the Sumatran governors' meeting, Riau Governor Syamsuar, said that he hoped the suggestions from all the governors would be conveyed to the central government.
"Currently, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, John Wempi Wetipo; expert staff of the National Development Planning (PPN) Ministry and National Development Planning Agency (Bappenas), Oktorialdi; and director general of infrastructure financing at the Public Works and Public Housing Ministry, Herry Trisaputra Zuna, are present online. We hope that this recommendation can be immediately received by the center," he stated.
He also underlined the urgent need for the continuation of the Trans Sumatra Toll Road’s construction, as voiced by the governors of Jambi and Aceh.
Other important issues highlighted by governors attending the meeting included the price of palm oil fresh fruit bunches (FFB), starting from the level of farms to exports.
Translator: Miko E, Kenzu T
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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