President Jokowi expressed regret over the news reports spreading rumors that the government was planning to increase the industrial electricity tariff.Lhokseumawe, Aceh (ANTARA News) - The government has no plans to increase the electricity tariff for the industry, but on the contrary, it might even decrease it, stated President Joko Widodo.
"The electricity tariff for the industry will not be increased, and it might even be cut down as some trillions can be saved by adopting measures to boost efficiency," President Widodo said here on Monday.
President Widodo arrived in Lhokseumawe to officially inaugurate the operations of the gas receiving and regasification terminal by PT Perta Arun Gas.
During his remarks, the president expressed regret over the news reports spreading rumors that the government was planning to increase the industrial electricity tariff.
"This is dangerous as (because of the news) the business people might not want to invest. As a matter of fact, every industry is afraid of an electricity tariff hike," he affirmed.
Therefore, President Widodo has urged the related media to highlight the efficient electricity operations for the industry.
"We want the industry to grow, so that we can reduce unemployment and poverty," he emphasized.
With regard to the gas receiving and regasification terminal in ex-PT Kilang Arun, the president has instructed Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Sudirman Said to monitor the operations, so the people of Aceh can yield its benefits.
According to President Widodo, it would be easier for the local government to invite investors to do business in the region as Aceh has abundant gas supply.
"The gas price here is cheaper and is ready-to-use, and it will be one of the important factors that will help to boost industrial grow in Aceh," he noted.
"Everything is available in Aceh. I want the fisheries and raw material industries to be soon built in Aceh," President Widodo added.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
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