Therefore, we will continue to encourage the improvement of the local workforce's quality and competency.
Tanjungpinang, Riau Islands (ANTARA) - Riau Islands Governor Ansar Ahmad has said that three special economic zones (SEZs) in the province are expected to absorb 50 thousand workers and a total investment of around Rp59.54 trillion.

The three SEZs are Galang Batang SEZ in Bintan District, Nongsa Digital Park SEZ in Batam City, and Batam Aero SEZ at Hang Nadim Airport, Batam City.

"This becomes a big potential for Riau Islands' children. Therefore, we will continue to encourage the improvement of the local workforce's quality and competency," he said at a national seminar on the potential for investment and local human resources at SEZs and free-trade zones (FTZs) here on Friday.

For the Galang Batang SEZ, there is an investment plan of Rp36.25 trillion, with the worker target pegged at around 22 thousand, Ahmad informed.

According to him, so far, investment realization at Galang Batang SEZ has reached Rp18 trillion, with the number of employed workers reaching more than four thousand.

Of the 19 SEZs in Indonesia, the Galang Batang SEZ has recorded the fastest growth and development compared to others.

"The activities focus on the alumina processing industry and its derivative products. This year, there will be an additional investment of around 3 billion US dollars for the recycled product industry, such as beverage cans and many other products," he informed.

He further said that for Nongsa Digital Park SEZ, there is an investment plan of Rp7.29 trillion, with the targeted need for workers pegged at around 4 thousand. The SEZ has become the base for an international data center as well as the production of animation films.

"Nongsa Digital Park SEZ focuses on developing high technology," he added.

Furthermore, there is the Batam Aero SEZ, which has an investment plan of Rp16 trillion and a worker target of around 16,500.

The governor informed that the SEZ houses a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility of private carrier Lion Air as well as its logistics hub. There is also a plan for developing the Hang Nadim Airport at the SEZ.

The main goal behind the development of SEZs is to create economic growth, equitable development, and improvement of the nation's competitiveness, he noted.

He expressed the hope that the presence of the three SEZs in the Riau Islands will push economic improvement and create as many jobs as possible for the local community.

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Translator: Ogen, Raka Adji
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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