Banten Governor: Cesium-137 Case Affects Regional Investment

SERANG - Banten Governor Andra Soni stated that the case of contamination of Cesium-137 radioactive material in the Cikande industrial area, Serang Regency, had an impact on the investment climate in the area.

"Of course it affects, but we are trying to localize the impact while looking for the cause why this dangerous material can enter the Banten area," said Andra in Serang City, Saturday.

He explained that the Banten Provincial Government had held a number of coordination meetings, but the full handling has now been withdrawn by the Criminal Investigation Unit of the National Police under the coordination of the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal and Security Affairs.

"We hope that this issue will be handled soon because the Cesium-137 contamination has a broad impact. The Banten Provincial Government does not have experience in dealing with radioactiveity, so we coordinate with Brimob and other related institutions," he said.

According to Andra, because Indonesia does not have a nuclear plant, the entry of Cesium-137 into the Banten area is strongly suspected to be related to the import policy.

"We are following directions from the central government, including the matter of decontamination steps," he said.

Despite being faced with radioactive cases, he emphasized that investment in Banten is still ongoing. The sector is even still able to provide new jobs for the community.

The unemployment rate is also starting to decline, although the number is still quite high. This is a challenge for the government to maximize regional potential," he said.

Andra said that central government support plays a role in growing job opportunities in Banten. "Luckily, many central government programs have helped encourage job creation," he said.

He emphasized that the Provincial Government will continue to maintain the stability of the investment climate in the midst of challenges, while ensuring that people continue to benefit from regional economic development.