Gov’t Builds 74 Embung in Rote Ndao Regency, 24 More in NTT

President Jokowi responds to reporters’ questions after monitoring Saina Embung in Oelolot Village, West Rote, on Tuesday (9/1)

The Government has built 74 retention basins (embung) in Rote Ndao Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). One of them is Saina Embung in Oelolot Village, West Rote.

The statement was made by President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo when responding to reporters’ questions after monitoring Saina Embung in Oelolot Village, West Rote, on Tuesday (9/1). “We have witnessed that people living near Saina Embung welcomed us by planting new batch of paddy field. I also saw them begin to plant corn and grow rice,” the President added.

According to the President, the retention basins (embung) can be used to irrigate paddy fields, plantations, and farms. President Jokowi asked the reporters to come in the afternoon and see farm animals head to the embung to search for water. “There is only one key point for Rote Ndao Regency and East Nusa Tenggara: water. I think water plays a great role in supporting agriculture, plantation, and also the availability of raw water. We hope the 74 embung can increase the productivity of agriculture and plantation sectors,” the President added.

President Jokowi asserted that there will be 24 more embung to be built in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). The President mentioned that currently there are 1,100 embung in NTT. “There is only one key, water,” the President concluded.

Accompanying President Jokowi in the event were Minister of Public Works and Public Housing Basuki Hadimuljono, Presidential Chief of Staff Teten Masduki, Governor of East Nusa Tenggara Frans Lebu Raya, and Regent of Rote Ndao Lens Haning.  (UN/ES) (RAS/EP/YM/Naster)