Government establishes new SEZs in education, health sectors

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian government has established two new special economic zones (SEZs), namely the Banten International Education, Technology, and Health SEZ and the Batam International Health Tourism SEZ.

"Each SEZ has a specific development focus and is expected to have a significant impact on the economy, create jobs, and attract investment," Secretary General of the SEZ National Council, Rizal Edwin Manansang, remarked here on Thursday.

According to Manansang, the establishment of the two new SEZs reflected the government's efforts to boost the national economy's competitiveness by developing strategic sectors.

He explained that the Banten International SEZ, with an area of 59.68 hectares (ha) and located in Tangerang District, is engaged in education and international health services through the use of digital technology.

With an investment target of Rp18.8 trillion, or around US$1.1 billion, this SEZ is expected to absorb up to 13,446 workers when fully operational.

This SEZ will become a location for an international education center with the existence of a global-class university, followed by technology development, with a target of 100 startups, and an integrated health sector, as well as creative industries.

Meanwhile, the Batam International Health Tourism SEZ, with an investment target of Rp6.91 trillion, or around US$440 million, has a labor absorption potential of 105,406 workers. The special area is targeted to become operational in 2026.

The development of the Batam International Health Tourism SEZ is expected to save foreign exchange reserves of up to Rp500 billion.

"This will strengthen Batam's position as a competitive regional health tourism destination while reducing foreign exchange loss by improving domestic medical services so that Indonesians no longer need to seek treatment abroad," Manansang affirmed.