Juwata Tarakan Airport Returns To International Status, Governor Zainal Emphasizes Cross-Sector Synergy

North Kalimantan Governor Zainal Arifin Paliwang welcomed the re-determination of Juwata Tarakan Airport as an international status. (VOI Ratu VIctor)

TARAKAN Governor of North Kalimantan (Kaltara), Zainal Arifin Paliwang emphasized the importance of discussion forums to unite perceptions and formulate joint steps in re-optimizing the role of Tarakan Juwata Airport.

This was conveyed by the Governor when opening a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) themed "The Cross Sector Synergy in the Context of Realizing Tarakan Juwata Airport as the International Gate of Kaltara" at the Classic Building of the Old Terminal of Juwata Airport, Tuesday (16/9/2025).

"This FGD is a strategic forum to unite cross-sectoral views in order to realize Tarakan's Juwata Airport as a proud international airport," he said.

Governor Zainal emphasized that based on the Decree of the Minister of Transportation Number 31 of 2024, the international status of Juwata Airport was revoked and lowered to a domestic airport, part of the national policy of post-pandemic aviation sector recovery.

"This step has a major impact on Kaltara, especially in terms of border connectivity and community mobility," he said.

"Then I carried out advocacy, including sending an official letter to the Minister of Transportation and submitting it directly to the Deputy Minister of Transportation in June 2025," added Zainal.

The struggle finally paid off. Through the Regulation of the Minister of Transportation Number KM 37 of 2025 dated August 8, 2025, the international status of Juwata Tarakan Airport was officially restored.

Governor Zainal said that the re-establishment of international status is in line with the vision and mission of the North Kalimantan Provincial Government, especially in strengthening regional connectivity and competitiveness.

"Several benefits are expected, among others, strengthening bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia (Sosek Malindo), improving the regional economy. Support for the National Strategic Project (PSN)," he explained.

Then, ease of access and community mobility as well as the implementation of more effective national policies.

The governor emphasized that the success of international airport operations cannot only be supported by local governments.

"I invite all parties, especially customs, immigration, and quarantine ranks in Kaltara to work hand in hand to support Juwata Airport as a modern, safe and competitive international airport. In addition, with solid cooperation, I am sure that Tarakan's Juwata Airport will become the gateway for Kaltara to the international world, encourage economic growth, and improve people's welfare," he concluded.