DPR Member: Presidential Instruction Continues to Complete Baai Port Channel Normalisation

Member of Commission V of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Erna Sari Dewi, stated that the Presidential Instruction (Inpres) regarding the normalisation of the Pulau Baai Port channel in Bengkulu will continue until it reaches a depth of minus 12 metres, accompanied by improvements to a number of supporting port facilities and infrastructure. “This has been discussed jointly with the Ministry of Transportation, that it will continue to minus 12. And not only this, there will also be repairs to supporting facilities and infrastructure,” said Erna Sari Dewi in Bengkulu on Tuesday. Erna explained that the continuation of the Pulau Baai Port channel normalisation has been discussed with the Central Government as part of efforts to strengthen the port’s function as an economic gateway for Bengkulu. According to her, dredging the channel to that depth is important so that large vessels can enter Pulau Baai Port, thereby increasing the capacity for commodity transport and logistics flows from Bengkulu. Erna assessed that better port channel conditions could enhance investment attractiveness in Bengkulu. In the future, Bengkulu could also become an entry point for logistics distribution flows and an export gateway for commodities from several regions in the central and southern parts of Sumatra Island. “For those wanting to invest in Bengkulu, this will certainly make investing here more attractive with our port channel in good condition,” she said. Apart from channel normalisation, Erna noted that the ongoing improvements at Pulau Baai Port also include the repair of supporting facilities and infrastructure. She cited the example of conveyor belt B, which is currently unusable, leaving only one conveyor operational while conveyor C is undergoing repairs. “Our conveyor B cannot be used right now, only one conveyor, conveyor C is currently being repaired. Of course, this will also be supported with equipment,” she remarked. According to Erna, the improvement of facilities and infrastructure, along with equipment support, is necessary so that Pulau Baai Port can provide optimal service for logistics movements. Erna emphasised that the port improvement efforts are not only oriented towards solving current problems but must also be directed at strengthening the port’s long-term function as a driver of the regional economy. She stated that her party will continue to oversee and collaborate with stakeholders to ensure that the various needs for the improvement of Pulau Baai Port can be followed up optimally.