JAKARTA – The hard work of the Southwest Papua Provincial Government in developing the Sorong Special Economic Zone (SEZ) received a positive response from the Chairman of Indonesian Regional Representative Council (DPD RI) AA LaNyalla Mahmud Mattalitti.
The senator from East Java assessed that the Sorong SEZ is one of the instruments and locomotives for accelerating economic development in Papua, which is a welfare approach to the complex problems there.
“Problems in Papua are so complex that they require a holistic and sustainable approach. One that can be used is the welfare approach,” he said on Monday (20/5).
“It is hoped that by increasing economic welfare, it will be able to reduce inequalities and disparities in Papua,” he continued.
Therefore, LaNyalla reminded all parties in Papua to be one rhythm in perspective and show a real contribution to build the Sorong SEZ for the better in the future.
“Every provincial government in Papua must have the same idea that one of the instruments for accelerating economic growth in Papua is the Sorong SEZ. Let’s all take a role in its development, we walk together, because the economic impact will be felt by all Papuan people,” he added.
According to him, the existence of the Sorong SEZ can create jobs, improve access to resources and services, as well as community empowerment measures to develop the economic potential of the region, such as agriculture, fisheries, crafts, tourism, and other local industries.
“The presence of employment opportunities for the community provides hope for the socio-economic improvement of the community. I think that is the right approach in dealing with problems in Papua,” LaNyalla said.
Earlier, the Acting Governor of Southwest Papua was reported to try to embrace all Acting Governors throughout Papua in the development of the Sorong SEZ as an effort to accelerate economic growth in Papua.
Moreover, in the near future, the construction of a smelter will begin in the region.
The SEZ in Sorong City was inaugurated in 2021. With it, the government hopes to improve the welfare of the local community, create jobs, reduce economic disparities, and support sustainable development in the Papua region.
In addition to SEZs, Papua also has an industrial estate in Teluk Bintuni Regency and an industrial estate in Fakfak Regency, West Papua Province.
Then it is planned to build an industrial area in agriculture in Merauke, South Papua Province.
