Chinese Workers Are Claimed to Have a Big Role in the Contruction of PLTU in Bintan

JAKARTA - As many as 450 foreign nationals from China work in the Galang Batang Special Economic Zone, Bintan Regency, Riau Islands, which is managed by PT Bintan Alumina Indonesia (BAI).

"On Saturday, September 5, another 145 workers from China entered our company. There are about 450 people in total. Just like other foreign workers, they adhere to health protocols," said President Director of PT BAI, Santoni, quoted from Antara, Monday, September 7.

He said that the current conditions were much more conducive than before there are workers from China. The public already understands that the foreign workers are only temporarily, which has the status of foreign investment.

The workers from China have expertise in various fields to build a PLTU and smelter in Galang Batang. The construction of the PLTU at the company's location is targeted for completion in November 2020. Meanwhile, the construction of the "smelter" in January 2021 is already operational.

"Without workers from China, the construction process will be disrupted," he said.

Santoni emphasized that local workers are prioritized to work at PT BAI. Currently, there are around 3 thousand workers from Bintan and other parts of Indonesia at the company.

The commitment to prioritize Bintan residents to work at PT BAI was also stated in the memorandum of understanding with the Regent of Bintan, Apri Sujadi.

"Most Bintan residents work at our company," he said.

Santoni emphasized that the company he leads continues to comply with applicable regulations. Including hiring foreign citizens.

"We cannot play games because this company has invested Rp20 trillion in Bintan. So we obey the rules so that all activities run smoothly," he said.