TEMPO.CO, Semarang - President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo demanded Kota Lama or Old Town in Semarang, Central Java be developed as a creative hub. He opined its vast area of up to 2 hectares was suitable as the center of the creative economy in the province.

The old town has been revamped by using some Rp170 billion budget from the Ministry of Public Works and Housing. “The most important is, there will be activities [in the region], especially related to creative economy and creative industries,” said the President in Kota Lama, Semarang, Monday, December 30.

The President visited the old town on an antique-data-style bicycle or onthel, accompanied by several ministers and Central Java Governor Ganjar Pranowo. Earlier, he visited Johar Market and Semarang’s square, which are one kilometer away from Kota Lama.

The restoration project has been ongoing since 2017, including the region’s drainage system--as it was located in the flood-prone area--roads, sidewalks, parks, and other public facilities.

“[The old town] has been restored so it can be the icon of Semarang and Central Java and attract tourists,” said the former Jakarta governor.

According to Jokowi, Kota Lama should also make economic contributions to the locals, which could be explored from the sectors of tourism, cultures, arts, and business.

JAMAL A. NASHR