Leading Kadin Balikpapan, Noval Prepares Investment Direction and Strengthening of Local Entrepreneurs
Balikpapan – Noval Asfihani has officially been entrusted to lead the Balikpapan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) for the 2026–2031 term, following his acclamation at the 12th City Deliberation held at the Royal Mahligai Golf Driving Club on Wednesday, 8 April 2026.
His election without a vote demonstrates the strong consolidation of support from the business community.
They hope the organisation will become more active in driving the city’s economy, especially given Balikpapan’s strategic position as a support area for the Nusantara Capital City (IKN).
After being elected, Noval stated that the new leadership will be directed towards strengthening cross-regional business networks, including opening communications for foreign investment.
One opportunity being developed stems from relations with the Sarawak Kadin, particularly for exploring cooperation in the health services sector.
According to him, business partners from Sarawak have shown interest in coming to Balikpapan after seeing the potential for developing the health sector, which is considered to have great prospects.
“They see quite attractive potential, especially for the development of health services. This is an opportunity that needs to be prepared seriously,” said Noval.
Although the visit plan is still in the initial communication stage, Noval assesses that this signal indicates Balikpapan is beginning to attract attention as one of the new investment destinations in the regional area.
He also highlighted the Indonesian public’s habit of still preferring to seek treatment abroad, especially in Malaysia. According to him, this situation can change if the quality of health facilities in Balikpapan continues to be strengthened and promoted more widely.
“In terms of quality, hospitals in Balikpapan have actually developed. It’s just a matter of building public trust and expanding promotion of existing services,” said Noval.
In addition to investment, cooperation opportunities are also opened in the form of technology exchange and medical knowledge between Balikpapan and Sarawak, so that the capacity of local health services becomes increasingly competitive.
During his leadership term, Noval brings a vision of building an inclusive, innovative, and competitive regional economy by placing local entrepreneurs as an important part of the city’s growth.
Several main agendas prepared include strengthening Kadin’s position as a professional business forum, as well as building strategic partnerships with the government.
Additionally, expanding sustainable investment, up to encouraging micro and medium enterprises to enter the regional supply chain. Digital transformation is also a focus in the organisation’s strategy so that local businesses can adapt to market changes and new industry needs.
Under this new leadership, Kadin Balikpapan is expected to become increasingly solid in capturing growing economic opportunities along with the major changes in East Kalimantan.