TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Investment Minister Bahlil Lahadalia visited Rempang Island in Riau Islands after the conflict between the residents of Rempang and enforcers. Bahlil was previously appointed by President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo.

"Last night I met with Mr. Gerisman Ahmad as the public figure in Rempang Island," Bahlil posted on his Instagram account, @bahlillahadalia, on Monday, September 18, 2023.

Bahlil posted three pictures along with the caption. "The purpose of this visit is to seek the best solution for Rempang residents and ensure the investment in this region proceeds as planned while paying attention to environmental sustainability and social justice," he added.

In a recent post, Bahlil also revealed that he has met with several relevant stakeholders in a coordination meeting to discuss the acceleration of environmentally friendly investment development in Rempang Island.

As an Investment Minister, Bahlil stated that he understood the need for investment to bolster the national economic growth. However, the government has to honor the rights of Rempang residents in doing so, Bahlil said. "An honorable, win-win solution without violence is what we are aiming for," Bahlil said. "Let's talk about it since we are all part of one community."

Earlier, Bahlil also mentioned that the government will prepare housing for 700 households impacted by the development of Rempang Eco-City. The development of the new housing will take around 6 or 7 months. "First, the government has prepared 500 meters square of land for each household. Second, [the government prepared] a 45-type house equal to around Rp120 million," Bahlil stated in a press conference on Monday.

Additionally, the government will provide temporary housing with Rp1.2 million for the rent and financing amounting to Rp1.2 million while the new houses are built.

"So, trust that the government is not heartless," Bahlil remarked.

RIRI RAHAYU

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