President Jokowi: Batang Industrial Zone in C. Java Aims to Create Job Opportunities

President Jokowi accompanied by Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo during a working visit to Central Java Province, Tuesday (30/6). (Photo by: Public Relations / Jay)

During a visit to the Batang Industrial Zone in Central Java Province, Tuesday (30/6), President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo stated that the opening of this industrial zone aims to create more job opportunities.  He instructed relevant ministers and Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) to provide the best services for the industries relocating from China to Indonesia.

If there is any difficulty in permitting process, the President has ordered Head of the BKPM to take care of it, from A to Z, so that investors can feel catered to.

On the issue of land acquisition in the country, the President said that he will back up the investors until such problems were resolved.

“Earlier, I have asked several investors regarding land procurement. For instance, investors who have procured land for their facilities in Serang or Bekasi can continue their projects if there are no problems,” he said.

President Jokowi went on to say that the Government will provide around 4,000 hectares of land in total and there will be 450 hectares of land for the first phase.

“LG Electronics, for example, plans to relocate its facilities to the country. Then, Head of the BKPM together with the Governor and the Regents here will assist the relocation process,” the President stated.

There are 119 companies that are looking to relocate from China.  They should be lured to invest in Indonesia.

“Do not let Indonesia fail once again to attract investors, just like last year when 33 companies moved away from China but none went to Indonesia,” the President emphasized.

On that occasion, the President announced that 7 foreign companies had confirmed their plans to relocate their factories to Indonesia, while 17 more companies are looking to open facilities in the country.

“I express my deepest gratitude for our quick work because it is not about a big country defeats a small country, it is about a fast country that will defeat a slow country,” the President concluded.

Also accompanying the President during the event were, among others, Cabinet Secretary Pramono Anung, Minister of State-Owned Enterprises Erick Thohir, Head of the Investment Coordinating Board Bahlil Lahadalia, and Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo. (HIM / EN)

Translated by: Syarifah Aisyah
Reviewed by: Mia Medyana