"We need fresh funding for the development of infrastructure, ports, electricity, and railways outside Java because our state budget does not suffice. When we delay (the projects), they require even more funding," Jokowi said here on Tuesday.
He added that investors needed to be encouraged to play a bigger role in the development of infrastructure, especially that of the transportation sector.
"We want to improve investments in that field," the president noted.
Investors who are members of the Investment Association visited Jokowi at the presidential palace on Tuesday afternoon.
"I do not want to make grandiose statements. They (the investors) were happy to meet me and the Coordinating Minister. We know that they have the power and ability (to be better involved in the projects)," the president remarked.
The group has investment potential of up to US$8 trillion.
"They are private investors. The strength of their funds amounts to some US$8 trillion," Jokowi affirmed.
He also pointed out that the investors, who are from 20 companies from several countries, did not make any special request.
"They did not make any special request. We (the Indonesian government) made the request," he said.
This meeting with the investors will be followed by one with domestic private, foreign private and state-owned enterprises.
"It could result in the creation of more jobs," he noted.
(UU.A063/INE/S012)
EDITED BY INE.
Editor: Suryanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2014
