Minister of Investment/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Bahlil Lahadalia reminded investors of the obligations of investors involved in accelerating sugar and bioethanol self-sufficiency in Merauke, South Papua.

"They have three obligations: First, people's rights must not be ignored. Second, plasma core. Third, local entrepreneurs are involved. The catering service, the labor should not all come from outside [Merauke]," Bahlil told reporters after conducting an aerial observation of the sugar and ethanol self-sufficiency locations in Merauke on Friday, May 17, 2024.

"Regarding the absorption of local labor, it is mandatory. Otherwise, I will take actions against those companies in Merauke," he added.

The minister, however, also asked local entrepreneurs to work professionally and avoid being careless when collaborating with investors.

"But you (local entrepreneurs) must also be ready. We cannot force (investors) to use local entrepreneurs, but they don't work properly. It is the same as you bankrupt the company," he said.

Bahlil also reminded local entrepreneurs to be professional.

"If you don't meet the requirements, you will be kicked out. This is competition." Bahlil said.

As previously reported, Bahlil visited Merauke to directly observe the development of sugar and bioethanol factory investment in Merauke. During the visit, Bahlil was convinced of the success of the project after seeing first-hand the seriousness of the company in conducting research and development, especially in finding seed varieties that are suitable for the soil and climate in Merauke.

The visit was Bahlil's first after he was appointed by President Joko Widodo to chair the Task Force for the Acceleration of Sugar and Bioethanol Self-Sufficiency in Merauke Regency, South Papua Province on April 19, 2024.

Established under Presidential Decree No. 15/2024, the task force aims to accelerate the integration of plantation investment activities with the sugar industry, bioethanol, and biomass power plants in the regency.