Speaking after a parliamentary hearing in Jakarta, Dudy said the existing airport in Merauke could not be used due to its private ownership and unsuitable terrain, including swampy areas that hinder expansion.
“The current airport is privately owned, and the location has swamps.We’ll build a new one with proper land conditions and a longer runway suitable for large cargo aircraft,” he said.
The new airport will serve the Merauke food estate, a strategic zone aimed at boosting agricultural output.
Physical construction is expected to begin next year, with technical and administrative preparations now underway.
“Normally, airport development takes time, but we’ll try to start as soon as possible. Likely next year, since we’re nearing the end of this year,” Dudy said.
Alongside the airport, the government is also preparing to develop a new seaport in the same area to enhance food distribution by sea.
The project was initiated by state-owned Agrinas Palma Nusantara and will be continued by the transport ministry.
With better infrastructure, Dudy said, Merauke is expected to become a major logistics hub for national food supply.
On September 16, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Zulkifli Hasan said Merauke will be the driving force behind Indonesia’s food, energy, and water independence.
The government plans to accelerate the development of a self-sufficiency zone in Wanam, Merauke, he said.
Zulkifli said the project would boost national food reserves and create jobs, in line with President Prabowo Subianto’s economic stimulus agenda.
The government, he said, needs more land to meet domestic food demand. The Free Nutritious Meals program also requires additional carbohydrate sources, making land expansion beyond Java necessary.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq also pledged support, saying his ministry is ready to oversee the sustainable development of the self-sufficiency zone.
“This is not just about food. It’s about building a stronger, more resilient, and more prosperous Indonesia,” he said.
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Translator: M.Harianto, Rahmad Nasution
Editor: Anton Santoso
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