Indonesia and China Strengthen Economic Ties with Two Countries Twin Parks Initiative
Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: President Prabowo Subianto and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto have discussed the follow-up plan to establish the “Two Countries Twin Parks” initiative at the Batang Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Central Java. The project, a collaborative effort between Indonesia and China, aims to enhance industrial investment and strengthen bilateral economic relations.
During a meeting at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta on Tuesday, Minister Hartarto revealed that the initiative, which involves an investment plan of Rp16 trillion (approximately US$967 million), is a continuation of discussions between President Prabowo and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The project aligns Indonesia’s Global Maritime Axis vision with China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
“The meeting today is a follow-up to the discussions held between President Prabowo and President Xi Jinping,” Hartarto stated, emphasizing the strategic importance of the collaboration.
The Two Countries Twin Parks initiative focuses on strengthening investment in key sectors, including maritime, food manufacturing, building materials, and electronics. Since the signing of the memorandum of understanding in 2021, the cooperation has significantly boosted industrial investment in both Indonesia and China.
In addition to the Batang SEZ, Minister Hartarto also briefed President Prabowo on the development of the Nongsa SEZ in Batam, Riau Islands. The National Council for Special Economic Zones plans to expand the Nongsa SEZ by 22.43 hectares to meet the increasing global demand for digital services and create efficient, environmentally friendly data centers. The target investment realization for the Nongsa SEZ is projected at Rp20.07 trillion.
Furthermore, the government has plans to develop the Singhasari SEZ in Malang, East Java, as Indonesia’s first digital hub. The zone is designed to become an innovative center for digital technology and tourism, fostering business and investment development. To support this vision, the management is actively preparing digital talents to meet the industry’s evolving needs.
King’s College London has already begun operations at the Singhasari SEZ, and Queen Mary University London, a member of the Russell Group, is also expected to establish a presence there. The initiative positions Singhasari as the pilot project for Indonesia’s first Education Special Economic Zone, marking a significant step forward in the nation’s digital transformation and education infrastructure.
