The Government Will Maximize Aspal Buton Utilization In Infrastructure Development

Minister of PUPR Basuki Hadimuljono. (Photo: Doc. Antara)

JAKARTA - Minister of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) Basuki Hadimuljono said the government would maximize the use of domestically produced Buton asphalt in infrastructure development in Indonesia.

"The Buton asphalt is also the president's order to make the most of it, we have spoken with the Buton asphalt association and the Buton regional government. I will buy any Beton asphalt production that you can produce, especially pure Buton asphalt production," said Basuki, quoted from Antara, Wednesday, November 23.

Basuki also added that if there were subordinates who did not want to buy Buton's asphalt, then he would immediately replace the subordinates.

"So I think this is a form of order as well as socialization," he said.

Basuki said that the independent infrastructure development using domestic products was an order from the President of the Republic of Indonesia to prohibit imports.

"In the past, it prioritized domestic production, but now orders are prohibited from importing, let alone using the state budget," he said.

Basuki also wants to relax a little bit of the import ban where there may also be items that cannot be produced independently.

"I would like to invite those from imports to build factories here in Indonesia. Do not let us buy but open up job opportunities abroad. Make job opportunities in Indonesia," he said.

Previously, the Ministry of Public Works and Public Housing (PUPR) encouraged construction industry players to prioritize the use of local materials made in Indonesia in carrying out infrastructure development.

Director General of Construction Development of the Ministry of PUPR Yudha Mediawan said business development in the country's construction industry was considered to play an important role. This is because massive infrastructure development in recent years has helped Indonesia catch up with developed countries.

"Therefore, it is important that the construction industry can utilize the maximum material resources in Indonesia so that the economic impact on the community is more optimal," he said.