Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Inauguration of Seven Integrated Cross-Border Posts (PLBNs) in Indonesia, in Napan Integrated PLBN, North Central Timor Regency, East Nusa Tenggara Province, October 2, 2024

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Good morning,

May peace be upon us all,

Shalom,

Om swastiastu,

Namo Buddhaya,

Greetings of Virtue.

Honorable Ladies and Gentlemen,

I want to emphasize once again that our border areas serve as the front porch of our nation, Indonesia, representing the face of our country. This face is reflected in the Border Posts we have constructed, which symbolize our country’s progress and people’s advancement. For this reason, ten years ago, I ordered the construction of border crossing posts along our frontiers.

This initiative is part of our efforts to promote equitable development, extending to our borders. These posts are crucial as buffer zones that strengthen our nation’s security. Furthermore, they will actively drive the creation of new economic hubs in our border areas.

From 2015 to 2024, we have constructed 15 Border Posts (PLBNs): 7 between 2015 and 2019, and 8 more from 2020 to 2024. Today, we are inaugurating seven integrated PLBNs located in East Nusa Tenggara, Riau Islands, West Kalimantan, North Kalimantan, and South Papua [provinces]. This initiative represents a significant investment, with a total budget of Rp1.3 trillion.

First, Napan PLBN, located in North Central Timor, East Nusa Tenggara, was built with a budget of Rp128 billion. Second, Serasan PLBN in Natuna regency, Riau Islands, and it cost Rp145 billion to construct. Third, Jagoi Babang PLBN in Bengkayang regency, West Kalimantan, was built with a budget of Rp224 billion. Fourth, Sei Nyamuk PLBN, located in Nunukan regency, North Kalimantan, was built with a budget of Rp248 billion. Fifth, Labang PLBN, also in Nunukan regency, North Kalimantan, cost Rp210 billion to build. Sixth, Long Nawang PLBN in Malinau regency, North Kalimantan was constructed with a budget of Rp243 billion. Seventh, Yetetkun PLBN in Ninati district, Boven Digoel regency, South Papua, was constructed with a budget of Rp127 billion.

The integrated PLBNs will significantly enhance services for Indonesians crossing the borders, strengthen security in our border areas, and drive the development of new economic hubs at the frontier. Furthermore, they aim to instill greater pride and love for our nation among the communities living near border areas.

I conclude my remarks. By saying bismillahirrahmanirrahim, I hereby inaugurate the seven Integrated Border Posts—Napan, Serasan, Jagoi Babang, Sei Nyamuk, Labang, Long Nawang, and Yetetkun—this afternoon.

Thank you.

Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

(RY/MMB)