Tomy Winata: It's Just Miscommunication
Translator
Editor
23 September 2023 11:32 WIB
When the project was designated as a national strategic project in April, was there already a timeframe for the delivery and the development plan?
I haven’t seen it till now.
What commitments did MEG have to make at that time?
We have to help the government find investment opportunities. On this premise, I began bringing in investors. Now, when they come, all investors must talk to BP Batam.
Not to MEG?
If I get (investors), I must report to BP Batam, the BKPM (Investment Coordinating Board), and the Coordinating Ministry for the Economy. Like that.
As regards compensation for the Rempang residents, where will the fund come from, BP Batam or MEG?
BP Batam.
So, MEG has no obligations in the land acquisition?
No. So, when people came and asked to talk to me, I said I didn’t mean to turn them away but I didn’t have the authority for direct acquisition (of the land).
How much investment has been committed to this project?
Rempang is earmarked to accommodate investments of Rp381 trillion (around US$24.8 billion—Ed.) within a few decades. But not from foreign investors. Not with companies from other regions. I have to work with BP Batam to build Rp381 trillion worth of investments.
How much of the committed investment fund has been acquired?
It’s still in the discussion, if there are no hurdles, maybe Rp50-60 trillion (US$3.2-3.9 billion).
[Is] the purpose of your Europe trip last week to find investors?
Yes. As an Indonesian, I can contribute by creating jobs by attracting investment.
Did you get any commitment?
Yes.
How many jobs will this project create?
At least for 35,000 people.
How did the last communication with BP Batam go?
Until now BP Batam is still firmed. My immediate boss is BP Batam, you see.
What is their attitude?
The bottom line is that they haven’t told me to stop, back away, or not to go forward. They only said, at a given time, in line with the schedule, if God willing, they would fulfill their obligations.
You don’t communicate with the Coordinating Ministry for the Economy or BKPM?
BP Batam is my direct boss. BP Batam is an extended arm of the Coordinating Minister for the Economy at the central (government). Now, who signed the contract with me? BP Batam and the Batam City Government, and these two are the ones who can end my contract.
Why are the residents of Rempang protesting this project?
Perhaps it’s just a lack of communication. Maybe the parties cannot understand the project well. Maybe.
Some suspect that a gambling center will be built on Rempang Island...
Any kind of misinformation and misunderstanding can be created. We as Indonesians who adhere to the standing laws and regulations always think rationally first, is it legal or not?
Read the Full Interview in Tempo English Magazine
