Banyuwangi, East Java (ANTARA) - State-owned train manufacturer INKA announced that its Banyuwangi factory in East Java will be fully operational in 2025 and will prioritize hiring local workers.

INKA CEO Eko Purwanto stated in a press release on Saturday that the Banyuwangi factory is committed to positively impacting the local economy by prioritizing the employment of local workers.

The factory offers job opportunities for graduates of vocational schools and bachelor's degree programs to meet its human resource needs.

"We also collaborate with the Banyuwangi Community Training Center (BLK) to provide workers with the necessary training to meet industry challenges," Purwanto said.

INKA participated in the Banyuwangi Job Fair organized by the Banyuwangi district government on September 4 and 5.

Purwanto explained that the increased labor demand is in line with the factory's plans to expand production using advanced machinery in the coming months.

"We are currently installing sophisticated machines and equipment with robotic automation," he said. "This will enhance production efficiency and capacity."

These machines will be used to manufacture electric rail trains ordered by state railway company PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia.

Purwanto mentioned that the Banyuwangi factory has been operating at a limited capacity since 2023, focusing solely on the production of freight carriages.

The addition of technology in Banyuwangi will allow for the transfer of fabrication activities from the INKA factory in Madiun, which is currently operating at full capacity, he added.

Ipuk Fiestiandani, the head of Banyuwangi district, commended INKA for prioritizing local residents in its hiring process.

She emphasized that attracting investments like the INKA factory is crucial for boosting the local economy and creating job opportunities for residents.

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Translator: Novi H, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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