Amidst President Joko Widodo’s (Jokowi) impending conclusion of his term, a significant achievement looms large in his legacy – the development of Indonesia’s infrastructure, particularly in the realm of airports. Over the span of a decade of Jokowi, 27 new airports have emerged, symbolizing a transformative period in the nation’s connectivity and accessibility.
M. Kristi Endah Murni, the Director-General of Air Transportation at the Ministry of Transportation, underscored the substantial progress witnessed under President Joko Widodo’s leadership. These strides were aimed at bolstering connectivity and service provision, especially in remote and marginalized areas.
This aims to improve connectivity and services to the public, especially in remote, underdeveloped, and border areas (3TP). Indonesia has successfully expanded its airport network by building airports across the country, including in 3TP areas. This has increased accessibility and mobility for local communities and spurred economic growth in previously inaccessible regions.
“Air transportation infrastructure development in Indonesia has made significant progress, with one of the main achievements being the construction of 27 new airports,” said Kristi in a statement on Friday (May 10, 2024).
Indonesia’s airport network expansion hasn’t just bridged geographical gaps; it’s also catalyzed economic growth in previously overlooked regions. The strategic placement of these airports has not only facilitated local mobility but also opened doors to new investment opportunities and bolstered the tourism sector.
Kristi highlighted the social dividends of this infrastructure development, emphasizing its role in enhancing access to essential services like healthcare and education in remote corners of the archipelago. Moreover, by fortifying transportation infrastructure, the nation’s security apparatus has been bolstered, ensuring safer mobility of goods and people.
Reflecting on this transformative journey, Kristi affirmed that Indonesia’s commitment to advancing its air transportation infrastructure remains steadfast. This commitment, she asserted, is pivotal in driving inclusive economic growth and sustainable development across the nation.
“With various achievements and benefits, the development of air transportation infrastructure in Indonesia will continue to be one of the top priorities in driving economic growth and sustainable development throughout the country,” she concluded.
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Here is a list of 27 new airports that have been built during President Joko Widodo’s tenure from 2014 to 2024:
- Letung Anambas Airport, Riau Islands;
- Tambelan Airport, Riau Islands;
- Haji Muhammad Sidik Muara Teweh Airport, Central Kalimantan;
- Maratua Airport, East Kalimantan;
- Morowali Airport, Central Sulawesi;
- Siau Airport, North Sulawesi;
- Miangas Airport, North Sulawesi;
- Koroway Batu Airport, Papua;
- Kertajati Airport, West Java;
- Tebelian Airport, West Kalimantan;
- Aji Pangeran Tumenggung Pranoto Airport, East Kalimantan;
- Buntu Kunik Airport, South Sulawesi;
- Kabir Airport, East Nusa Tenggara;
- Namniwel Airport, Maluku;
- Werur Airport, Papua;
- Rokot Sipora Airport, West Sumatra;
- Ngloram Airport, Central Java;
- Siboru Airport, West Papua;
- Nabire Baru Airport, Central Papua;
- Kediri Airport, East Java;
- Singkawang Airport, West Kalimantan;
- Banggai Laut Airport, Central Sulawesi;
- Bolaang Mongondow Airport, North Sulawesi;
- Mandailing Natal Airport, North Sumatra;
- Pohuwato Airport, Gorontalo;
- Kulon Progo Airport, Yogyakarta;
- Sobaham Airport, Yahukimo.
As President Joko Widodo’s tenure draws to a close, the legacy of these 27 new airports stands as a testament to the transformative potential of strategic infrastructure investments. From Letung Anambas to Sobaham, these airports represent not just concrete structures but gateways to progress and prosperity for Indonesia.
