DPR Commission II Deputy Chair Bahtra Banong Gathers Community Aspirations in Kolaka Regency
Bahtra Banong, Deputy Chair of Commission II of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from the Gerindra Party representing the Southeast Sulawesi constituency, conducted a recess activity in Kolaka Regency today, visiting residents in Ngapa Ward and Watalara Village. The event served as a momentum for Bahtra to engage in direct dialogue with the community to absorb various aspirations regarding regional development, ranging from education, road infrastructure, and agricultural irrigation to healthcare services, community economic empowerment, and the improvement of public services and village governance.
During the visit, Bahtra also distributed hundreds of basic food packages to residents as a gesture of care for community needs. The dialogue was held in a warm atmosphere, attended by community leaders, religious figures, youth leaders, women’s groups, farmers, as well as village and ward officials. Residents expressed their hopes that the government could accelerate infrastructure development to support economic activities, improve the quality of educational and health facilities, strengthen the agricultural sector through improved irrigation networks and agricultural machinery assistance, and continue to promote equitable development to remote villages.
“The recess is an opportunity for us to hear the voice of the people directly. All aspirations presented—whether related to education, agriculture, infrastructure, public services, or other sectors—will be inventoried and fought for through the existing mechanisms. Matters within the authority of Commission II will be monitored directly, while those within the authority of other commissions or relevant ministries will be coordinated to ensure they receive government attention,” Bahtra Banong stated in a written release on Saturday (1/8/2026).
In addition to gathering aspirations, Bahtra handed over hundreds of basic food packages to the people of Ngapa Ward and Watalara Village. He noted that the presence of a representative is manifested not only through the legislative, supervisory, and budgeting functions in the DPR RI but also through tangible actions that provide direct benefits to the community. The aid is expected to alleviate the burden on residents and strengthen the spirit of togetherness.
“I want to ensure that the people of Southeast Sulawesi always have a channel to convey their aspirations. The mandate given to me will be continuously upheld by working, being present among the people, and fighting for every regional need to ensure it becomes a priority for the central government. I hope this small effort can bring benefits and further strengthen the spirit of mutual cooperation within the community,” Bahtra concluded.