Heaptalk, Jakarta—President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) inaugurated several infrastructure projects in Gorontalo Province. The first project was Panua Pohuwato Airport in Pohuwato Regency.
In his speech, Jokowi highlighted the significant economic benefits of the Panua Pohuwato Airport, a project that costs Rp437 billion approximately US$26.9 million (US$1 equals Rp16,242). With its 1,200 x 30 meters long runway, this airport is set to revolutionize economic access to Pohuwato Regency. The President’s future vision includes an extended runway capable of accommodating entire ATR-type aircraft, which would significantly enhance the airport’s role in boosting local economic activity.
“I took the ATR earlier since the presidential plane couldn’t land. That’s why I ordered at the terminal that the runway length must be increased, making entire ATR can enter Pohuwato,” he emphasized.
With the opening of Panua Pohuwato Airport, the President expects that new economic opportunities will emerge that will improve the welfare of the people of Pohuwato Regency. This inauguration also symbolizes the government’s commitment to advancing regions in Indonesia through infrastructure development. He added, “Hopefully, with this airport, the economy in Pohuwato can improve, and new economic points will emerge.”
Inaugurating regional roads in Boalemo Regency
After the airport inauguration, President Jokowi proceeded to Boalemo Regency to inaugurate regional roads in Gorontalo Province. Jokowi reiterated that these regional roads are a crucial part of the central government’s ongoing efforts to enhance connectivity and productivity in the region. The president underscored the vital role of road infrastructure in supporting local production, such as coconut and corn.
“If there is coconut production here, there is corn production. If there is no road, where will you take it? Roads are vital to increasing productivity in an area,” said President Jokowi at the inauguration ceremony in Dulupi District, Boalemo Regency.
This year, Gorontalo Province received funds amounting to Rp161 billion, or around US$9.9 million, allocated to constructing five roads totaling 46 kilometers. These roads cross three regencies: Boalemo Regency, Gorontalo Regency, and North Gorontalo Regency. The local community’s reaction to the construction of this road was very positive. A local resident, Herman, expressed gratitude that the government had not forgotten those in remote areas.
“This used to be a footpath, let alone four-wheeled vehicles, even bicycles couldn’t pass. The existence of this road will impact the local community’s economy,” said Jokowi, imitating the words of local residents he met. Jokowi hopes that the two infrastructures inaugurated will increase economic income in Gorontalo.
