Central Java Government Says Investment Has Absorbed 340,334 Workers
Semarang (ANTARA) – The Central Java Provincial Government said investment in the province had reached Rp72.54 trillion through the third quarter of 2026, absorbing at least 340,334 workers across 82,420 projects.
Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi said in Semarang on Wednesday that regional economic development could not rely solely on government budgets.
He said private investment and cooperation between regions were needed to expand business activity and create jobs.
He made the remarks while opening the 19th Semarang Business Forum (Sembiz) 2026 at The Suri Ballroom in Queen City Mall, Semarang.
“This business forum has three crucial elements: tourism, trade and investment. These are three links in a chain that cannot be separated,” he said.
He therefore encouraged Semarang to become a driving force for investment and regional economic growth.
Through collaboration with neighbouring areas, he said, the potential of trade, tourism and investment could be developed to create new economic centres.
He said Semarang had a strategic position as an economic hub connecting the potential of surrounding areas, including Kendal, Demak, Grobogan and Salatiga.
Through a division of roles and cooperation, each area was expected to develop its strengths while supporting the others in attracting investment.
He said Central Java remained attractive to investors amid global economic challenges and fiscal constraints, thanks to a conducive business climate, economic growth and a competitive workforce, particularly for labour-intensive industries.
“Fifty-seven labour-intensive companies from Vietnam will set up in our region. Vietnam’s labour-intensive business model is similar to ours, and they will open branches here,” he said.
Semarang Mayor Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti said cooperation between regions was essential to developing investment, as the city had limited land for large-scale industrial estates.
She said Semarang was therefore focusing more on trade and services, while relying on support from surrounding areas with industrial potential and other resources.
“Semarang cannot do it alone. The Semarang City Government cannot do it alone. We invite all investors to work with us to develop businesses for the common good and progress,” she said.
She said Sembiz, now held for the 19th time, provided a platform for connecting investors with business opportunities. These included developing the Tinjomoyo tourism area while preserving its forest function.