"Most of the 27 strategic ports spread across districts and cities in East Java are located in Sumenep," she added.
Sumenep district has seven strategic ports, with Kalianget Port on the mainland and six others on the islands: Masalembu, Sapudi, Sapeken, Kangean, Keramaian, and Raas. Dungkek Port is located on the mainland of Sumenep.
Parawansa said she expects Dungkek Port to serve as an alternative to the district's mainland port, which is currently centralized in Kalianget.
"In this way, loading and unloading activities of passengers and goods in Sumenep and Madura can be more controlled," she explained.
Furthermore, she expects the presence of Dungkek Port to significantly improve the regional economy.
Dungkek Port is a vital infrastructure that will connect Gili Iyang and Gili Labak islands, she added.
"In addition to maximizing public services in terms of logistics and transportation, Dungkek Port has the potential to become a new tourism center," she said.
Parawansa expressed optimism that Dungkek Port will promote local wisdom.
"This is unique because Gili Iyang Island is a health tourism destination, considering its oxygen levels are the second highest in the world after Jordan. Compared to other regions, the level of oxygen there is 20.9 percent higher," she said.
Not only Sumenep, but other ports in the East Java region must also support the trade and tourism sectors and help improve the local economy, she added.
She emphasized that port development in the East Java region is being carried out intensively with financial assistance from the provincial government, in addition to cooperation with related parties.
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Translator: Abdul H, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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