RI may get Rp 55t investment from Malaysia

JAKARTA. A dozen Malaysian companies have expressed interest in sinking some Rp 55 trillion (US4.14 billion) into Indonesia, according to Disadvantaged Regions and Transmigration Minister Eko Putro Sandjojo.

On President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo’s instruction, Eko visited the neighboring country on April 20-21 with the specific task of offering investment opportunities in the archipelago.

“They were highly interested in investing in Indonesia. Potential investment from Malaysian companies has reached Rp 33 trillion,” said Eko in Jakarta on Thursday.

Though they expressed interest in various sectors, a majority of these 12 companies had their eyes on Indonesia’s infrastructure and plantations, he added.

Among these is YTL Corporation Berhad, which has been involved in the development of coal-fired power plant (PLTU) Tanjung Jati B in Jepara, Central Java, with a total investment of Rp 32.4 trillion.

“Another [interested] company is United Engineers Malaysia (UEM), who nearly made a deal to continue the construction of the Palimanan-Solo toll road,” said Eko.

Business delegates from Malaysia are scheduled to arrive in Indonesia in early May to further discuss their investment commitments in Indonesia, he added. (bbn)