Palu. Central Sulawesi on Thursday launched its first direct international flights with the inauguration of a Garuda Indonesia charter service linking Palu and Guangzhou, marking a milestone in the province's efforts to strengthen trade, investment and tourism ties with China.

The inaugural flight departed from Mutiara SIS Al-Jufri International Airport, which officially began operating as an international gateway after receiving international airport status from the central government in 2025.

The launch ceremony was attended by Garuda Indonesia Vice President Director Thomas Sugiarto Oentoro, Transportation Ministry officials, and regional leaders from across Central Sulawesi.

"This is a historic moment for Central Sulawesi. After years of waiting, we have finally opened our first international flight from Palu through the collaboration of the central government, the provincial administration, the airport operator, Garuda Indonesia and many other stakeholders," Governor Anwar Hafid said.

Anwar recalled that he had long hoped to see international air services from Palu after previously realizing a similar ambition during his tenure as regent of Morowali.

"Earlier this year, I imagined that one day this airport would have international flights. Thankfully, that dream has become reality much sooner than I expected," he said.

The governor said the Palu-Guangzhou route would do more than improve air connectivity, describing it as a gateway to expanded investment, trade, tourism, education and broader international cooperation.

Central Sulawesi has already established sister province partnerships with Hainan and Sichuan, whose governments welcomed the launch of direct flights to Palu, he said.

"We want the world to know Central Sulawesi not only for its industries, but also for its tourism, culture and historical heritage," Anwar said.

Thomas said Garuda viewed Central Sulawesi as one of Indonesia's emerging economic regions, while Guangzhou serves as one of Asia's leading trade, manufacturing and logistics hubs.

"The direct connection will facilitate business travel, expand market access, encourage investment and support tourism. We want to provide connectivity that creates new economic opportunities and strengthens regional competitiveness," he said.

He added that the charter service forms part of Garuda's broader business transformation strategy to better respond to market demand while supporting Indonesia's economic development.

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