Jakarta. Chief Economic Affairs Minister Airlangga Hartarto recently inaugurated Alexander Zulkarnain as a member of the administration and finance division at BP Batam.

Alexander officially replaced Wahjoe Triwidjo Koentjoro. Alexander used to work at the Finance Ministry’s Inspectorate General. At the inauguration ceremony, Airlangga told the newly appointed member to quickly adapt to BP Batam so the agency could attract more investments.

“This is part of the tour of duty. Congrats to Mr. Alexander on his new role, and we would like to thank Mr. Wahjoe for his dedication,” Airlangga said.

According to Airlangga, BP Batam -- the island's development agency -- has helped drive investment growth over the past five years. The minister added that the agency had made Batam a key economic driver to the Riau Islands. 

“Hopefully, the new official can bring a new energy to BP Batam. Because the key to Indonesia’s growth is investment,” Airlangga said, while calling for a better synergy between BP Batam and its stakeholders, including the government across all levels.

Batam is home to a number of special economic zones, including the Nongsa Digital Park and Batam Aero Technic. 

"BP Batam needs to overcome global economic challenges, increasing geopolitical tensions and current climate change. BP Batam must also be able to turn the city into a leading investment destination,” Airlangga said.