By: Patih Rumaga )*
Infrastructure development in Indonesia has been one of the main focuses of the Joko Widodo (Jokowi) government since assuming office as President in 2014. In ten years, various massive infrastructure projects have been launched and implemented, having a significant impact on society.
Since the beginning of his leadership, President Jokowi has demonstrated his commitment to infrastructure development by prioritizing large-scale projects. He realizes that infrastructure is the main foundation for economic growth and social welfare. One of the most striking infrastructure projects is the construction of toll roads. Jokowi is committed to expanding the toll road network throughout Indonesia, from Sumatra to Papua.
This project not only speeds up transportation access, but also creates new jobs. Many communities around the toll road construction area felt the direct impact, with increased mobility of goods and people. Small entrepreneurs also benefit because better access makes distribution of their products more efficient.
Deputy Chairman for Strengthening and Regional Development of the Indonesian Transportation Society (MTI) Djoko Setijowarno assessed that the toll road project during the era of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) had a big impact on society. According to him, travel time via land can be cut by up to 50% because of the current existence of toll roads.
Apart from toll roads, the construction of a new airport is also a major highlight. Airport development projects, such as Kertajati International Airport in West Java and Yogyakarta International Airport in Kulon Progo, have had a positive impact on tourism and the local economy. The local community feels the benefits of increased tourist visits which have a direct economic impact, such as increasing income for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The public also appreciates the development of public transportation infrastructure, such as trains. The Jakarta-Bandung High Speed Railway project, which is currently in the completion stage, is a symbol of transportation modernization in Indonesia. The existence of efficient and fast public transportation not only reduces congestion, but is also a more environmentally friendly alternative. With trains, people can move places more comfortably and quickly, and reduce dependence on private vehicles.
Minister of Transportation (Menhub) Budi Karya Sumadi stated that the last 10 years have been a period of extraordinary transformation for the transportation sector. According to him, during that period or while Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) was in office, massive infrastructure development was carried out, then the digitalization of services and increased connectivity had a positive impact on society.
In the context of infrastructure development, environmental aspects are also a concern. Jokowi underlined the importance of sustainable and environmentally friendly development. Many infrastructure projects now integrate environmentally friendly concepts, such as city parks, good drainage systems, and the use of renewable energy. This is one way to ensure that development does not only focus on the economy, but also preserves the environment for future generations.
Apart from physical development, President Jokowi also pays great attention to the development of human resources, both in Papua, Aceh and Batam. Chairman of the Batam City Archipelago Youth Movement (GPN), Badri Wardana, expressed his appreciation to President Joko Widodo for the success in developing Batam City during his 10 year administration. Badri explained that during the era of President Jokowi’s administration, development in border areas received serious attention with the allocation of quite large funds. He hopes that this can be continued by the President-elect, Prabowo Subianto.
Furthermore, Badri highlighted the rapid progress of infrastructure in Batam City, especially the construction of main roads which now have five to six lanes. According to him, this really supports mobility and smooth transportation in Batam City. Through education and training programs, the people of Batam are given the opportunity to improve their skills and competencies. This not only has a positive impact on employment, but also increases local competitiveness in the global era. With various policies that support the community, Batam has now become a magnet for investment and innovation.
The success of the development of Batam City can also be seen from efforts to preserve the environment and improve the quality of life of the community. The sustainable programs launched under President Jokowi’s administration show a commitment to maintaining a balance between economic development and environmental sustainability. This is an important step to ensure that the progress achieved can be enjoyed by future generations.
By looking at the various aspects above, it is very clear that the massive infrastructure development in the era of President Jokowi has had a significant positive impact on society. The public increasingly appreciates the government’s efforts to improve the quality of infrastructure which ultimately supports economic growth and prosperity. It is hoped that in the future, the government can continue and improve infrastructure development programs that do not only focus on physical aspects, but also consider social and environmental aspects for the sake of sustainable development.
The community is also expected to play an active role in supporting infrastructure development. Public participation in the decision-making, monitoring and evaluation process of infrastructure projects is very important. By involving communities, governments can better understand their needs and expectations, and create projects that are more inclusive and beneficial to all levels of society.
)* The writer is from the Kalimantan News editorial team