Jayapura – Dutch investors are exploring various potential development opportunities for new, renewable energy (EBT) and the economy in Papua to open up concrete cooperation opportunities, said Papua Deputy Governor Aryoko Rumaropen.
Aryoko stated in Jayapura on Thursday (April 16) that the visit had gone through official procedures and was coordinated with the central government, and is expected to open up concrete cooperation opportunities.
“The investor group immediately visited several locations to assess Papua’s outstanding potential, from renewable energy sources to the plantation and forestry sectors,” he said after a meeting at the Papua Governor’s Office.
According to Aryoko, the visit by the cooperation and business exploration delegation led by Alfred van der Klis to Papua was to observe the local natural conditions firsthand.
“Today, the group has seen the potential of water as a source of electricity, solar energy in several areas, and local potential such as sago that is already managed by the community,” he said.
He explained that developing local potential is the main focus of the collaboration to encourage economic growth and improve the welfare of the Papuan people.
“Furthermore, the delegation is also focusing on other commodities such as eucalyptus oil, cocoa, and vanilla, which are considered to have high economic value,” he added.
He added that the provincial government also hopes for financial support and facilities for the development of vocational schools, so that graduates can be directly absorbed into the workforce.
“We hope this collaboration will not stop at the discussion stage, but can be realized in concrete programs that will have an impact on improving the regional economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, the delegation from the exploratory mission for cooperation and business, led by Alfred van der Klis, stated that their visit to Papua aims to connect communities and strengthen the exchange of knowledge and best practices, particularly in the sectors of education, educational technology, and job creation.
“We want to encourage impactful economic projects, especially those focused on education, educational technology, and employment,” he said.
According to Alfred, his team is also interested in developing renewable energy projects, such as the use of small-scale solar power, which are deemed suitable for the needs of the Papuan community.
“During this visit, we and our partners also visited several locations, including the Sentani area in Abar Village. We then directly observed the implementation of solar panel systems and sago production facilities as part of the local economic potential,” he said.
