"We are aiming to revitalize 154 transmigration areas across Indonesia. These areas hold significant economic potential that can be realized," Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) said at a press conference after the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) here on Friday.
The agreement seeks to enhance cross-sectoral synergy and accelerate the revitalization of the 154 transmigration regions. According to AHY, the partnership focuses on creating job opportunities and improving equitable economic access for communities in those areas.
"We want to provide solutions and policies to address poverty and inequality in various regions," he noted.
Furthermore, Transmigration Minister Muhammad Iftitah Sulaiman Suryanagara explained that the 154 areas are being developed in stages in line with the National Medium-Term Development Plan.
Several pilot projects have already been designated as models, including the Melolo transmigration area in East Nusa Tenggara and Salor in Merauke District, which is adjacent to the national strategic sugarcane industry project.
These projects are expected to support bioethanol production and sugar self-sufficiency by utilizing industrial land without eliminating local community ownership.
Suryanagara stressed that transmigrant communities will remain landowners through corporations under the Red and White Cooperative, which will partner with industry for sustainable collaboration.
The business model offers two benefits for transmigrants, a monthly income as workers and dividends from land ownership, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s directive.
Meanwhile, Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang said the MoU marks an important step in bringing industrial development closer to transmigration regions, helping address land availability issues for potential investors.
He expressed confidence that the program will contribute to national economic growth while creating opportunities for industrial investment based on local potential.
“This partnership seeks to deliver quick wins that can serve as breakthroughs in strengthening both industry and transmigration,” he said.
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Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Primayanti
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