Jakarta (ANTARA) – President Prabowo Subianto voiced optimism about Indonesia’s future after observing industrial growth and downstreaming progress at the Indonesia Weda Bay Industrial Park (IWIP) in Central Halmahera, North Maluku.
“Some are suggesting that Indonesia faces a bleak outlook and is on the verge of collapse. Such predictions have become a monthly theme. But today I came here and saw a bright future for Indonesia,” he said on Thursday.
Speaking at an event livestreamed by the Presidential Secretariat, Prabowo said developments at the industrial estate and his interactions with workers had reinforced his confidence in the country’s future.
“I was welcomed by employees with high spirits and bright, cheerful faces. I did not see a single gloomy face today,” the president said.
He also noted that visits to eastern Indonesia always energize him, citing his roots in the region.
Prabowo also expressed appreciation to IWIP executives and companies operating in the industrial estate for helping empower local communities by creating employment opportunities for residents.
“Eastern Indonesians are hard-working and loyal people,” he said.
The president described IWIP’s industrial expansion as part of the country’s broader economic development efforts. The industrial estate has attracted US$20 billion in realized investment and employs more than 100,000 workers, according to Investment and Downstreaming Minister Rosan Roeslani.
Prabowo made the remarks during the launch of a downstreaming program worth Rp180 trillion (US$10.2 billion), which includes the first export shipment of electric vehicle batteries and 11 downstreaming projects.
The projects comprise four that were launched into commercial operation and seven others that were launched for construction.
The head of state described the program as part of Indonesia’s long journey of national development, crediting his predecessors for helping lay the groundwork for the achievement.
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Translator: F. Rochman, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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