Ferry transport inaugurated

KENDARI, Southeast Sulawesi: Southeast Sulawesi Governor La Ode Kaimoeddin inaugurated on Monday the operation of the Pulau Sagori ferry to serve a new route linking Torobulu in Kendari to Tampo in Muna.

Kaimoeddin said the inauguration of the ferry service showed the central government's support in people-oriented development programs in the region.

"Sea transportation in Southeast Sulawesi is very strategic due to its geographical location," he said, adding that the new facility was expected to benefit the public.

The ferry was manufactured by the Indonesian Shipbuilding Industry (IKI) at a cost of Rp 15 billion (US$1.65 million). The funds to build it were taken from the budget of the province's River, Lake and Ferry Transport (ASDP) Office, Antara reported. (08)