ALFI Supports Improvement Of Logistics Infrastructure Of Prabowo Subianto's Government

JAKARTA - The Indonesian Logistics and Forwarders Association (ALFI) affirms its commitment to supporting the efforts of the Prabowo Subianto government to increase national connectivity, reduce logistics costs, and encourage Indonesia's economic growth. General Chairperson of ALFI, Akbar Djohan appreciated the government's steps through PT Wijaya Karya (Persero) Tbk (WIKA) which has implemented Asta Cita by building the Serang-Panimbang Toll Road.

"The Serang-Panimbang Toll Road is clear evidence of how the synergy between the government and the infrastructure sector can have a positive impact on the logistics sector and the national economy. This infrastructure will cut travel times and significantly reduce logistics operational costs," said Akbar Djohan in Jakarta, Monday, January 20.

Akbar said the 83.67 km Serang-Panimbang Toll Road is a strategic link between Serang City, the capital city of Banten Province, and Panimbang District, which is the main access to the Tanjung Lesung Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Akbar believes this infrastructure is able to cut the travel time from Jabodetabek to Central and South Banten from 3-4 hours to just 1-2 hours.

"This toll road is also expected to be able to significantly reduce logistics costs for the long term," Akbar continued.

Citing an economic feasibility study conducted by the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) in 2016, Akbar said that the Serang-Panimbang Toll Road could reduce Vehicle Operational Costs (BOK) by 30 percent and reduce goods transportation travel time by 50 percent.

"With the reduced cost and distribution time, business actors will find it easier to reach the market, especially the Central and South Banten areas, which have great economic potential," Akbar continued.

According to Akbar, this will have a positive impact on the efficiency of supply chains and encourage economic growth in the region. Akbar also hopes that the construction of the Serang-Panimbang Toll Road will be able to support the development of the Tanjung Lesung SEZ as a leading tourism destination and a high competitive industrial area.

"With the availability of reliable logistics infrastructure, this region is expected to attract more investment and increase the competitiveness of local products in the domestic and international market," said Akbar.

ALFI, Akbar continued, hopes that the government will continue to develop infrastructure that is oriented towards increasing connectivity and logistics efficiency throughout Indonesia, thus supporting the creation of a more competitive and global competitive business climate.