The Indonesian government has launched two new special economic zones (SEZs), namely the Banten International Education, Technology, and Health SEZ and the Batam International Health Tourism SEZ. According to the SEZ National Council Secretary General, each zone is tailored to a specific development focus and is expected to significantly boost the economy, create jobs, and attract investment.
The Secretary-General stated that creating the two new SEZs underscores the government’s efforts to enhance the national economy’s competitiveness by developing key strategic sectors. He further explained that the Banten International SEZ, spanning 59.68 hectares in Tangerang District, focuses on education and international health services, leveraging digital technology.
With an investment target of IDR 18.8 trillion (approximately USD 1.1 billion), the SEZ is projected to create up to 13,446 jobs once fully operational. It is set to become a hub for international education, featuring a global-class university alongside a focus on technology development to foster 100 startups, an integrated health sector, and creative industries.
Meanwhile, the Batam International Health Tourism SEZ, with an investment target of IDR 6.91 trillion (approximately USD 440 million), can potentially create 105,406 jobs. The SEZ is expected to begin operations in 2026, and its development is projected to contribute to foreign exchange savings of up to IDR 500 billion.
The Secretary-General emphasized that this initiative will enhance Batam’s status as a competitive regional health tourism destination while reducing foreign exchange outflows by improving domestic medical services, thus eliminating the need for Indonesians to seek treatment abroad.
(Source: ANTARA News)
