"East Java is the province with the second largest population in Indonesia, comprising 40.6 million people, according to the population census in 2020. In the trade sector, East Java has strong connections with 20 provinces, particularly in the eastern parts of Indonesia," the governor said, according to written statement received in Surabaya on Wednesday.
She spoke of conversing with Graham during a dinner in Surabaya on June 6, 2023.
On the occasion, the governor said that East Java's strategic location is supported with sea tolls. Of the 32 national sea tolls, 27 of them are from Surabaya, she noted. Hence, transportation for sea logistics, particularly for eastern Indonesia, is more effective and affordable, she said.
"East Java is also the only province which is granted the authority to manage docks and airports, the airport in Malang and the docks in Probolinggo. So, Mr Graham's decision to come here and meet us is just right," she noted.
East Java also set an example for eastern Indonesia, in terms of education and medical aspects, Parawansa noted.
"This, of course, can be improved with synergy between UK and East Java in the education sector. Moreso after Education, Culture, Research and Technology Minister Nadiem Makarim managed to encourage 45 UK universities to express interest in Indonesia during his latest visit to UK," Governor Parawansa said.
She also stated that East Java's health sector is among the best in Indonesia, thus they were trusted by the Health Ministry to cater to the medical needs of eastern Indonesia.
"East Java has 14 hospitals. One of them is Dr Soetomo Regional Hospital, which has the most beds in Indonesia. If there is (assistance) from UK, this will become greater," Parawansa stressed.
Graham stated that he expected an extensive collaboration with East Java in education, medical, transportation, renewable energy, as well as trade sectors.
"We want a relation that is more in-depth. As well as a partnership planning program on energy transitions and special funding for a renewable energy project, including with PLN for solar energy," he said.
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Translator: Abdul Hakim, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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