President Joko Widodo Inaugurates Singkawang Airport
Singkawang, The Gulf Observer: President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) ceremonially inaugurated the Singkawang Airport in Singkawang, West Kalimantan, on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone poised to enhance the mobility of residents and logistics within the region.
In his address, President Jokowi underscored the transformative potential of the newly operational airport, expressing optimism about its role in stimulating economic vitality and fostering development in Singkawang. He emphasized the importance of leveraging the airport as a model for replication in other regions across the nation, showcasing a blueprint for sustainable infrastructure development.
The president lauded the collaborative financing model employed for the airport’s construction, which incorporated contributions from both the public and private sectors. Through innovative funding mechanisms such as Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives spearheaded by local entrepreneurs, the Singkawang Airport project stands as a testament to the power of collective investment in driving national progress.
Highlighting the substantial contributions made by local stakeholders, President Jokowi commended the significant role played by the community in propelling the development of their region. According to a report from Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, local entrepreneurs contributed Rp155 billion towards the airport’s construction, complementing the Rp272 billion allocated from the state budget.
Looking ahead, President Jokowi urged Transportation Minister Sumadi to facilitate the establishment of airlines servicing routes to and from Singkawang City. Anticipating the airport’s imminent commencement of operations in April 2024, the president emphasized the need for comprehensive airline readiness, envisioning expanded connectivity to accommodate the region’s growing demand for air travel.
Developed over a span of four years from 2019 to 2023, Singkawang Airport boasts essential infrastructure including a 200m x 18m taxiway, a 100m x 50m apron, an expansive 8,000-square-meter passenger terminal, and a dedicated 312-square-meter cargo terminal. Notably, upgrades to the airport’s runway, extending it to 2,000 meters, enable the accommodation of narrow-bodied aircraft such as the Airbus A320, catalyzing enhanced connectivity and accessibility for travelers.
Accompanying President Jokowi during the momentous inauguration ceremony were esteemed dignitaries including Public Works and Public Housing Minister Basuki Hadimuljono, State-owned Enterprises Minister Erick Thohir, and Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing inclusive and sustainable development initiatives across the nation.
