State-owned port operator PT Pelabuhan Indonesia (Pelindo) has expressed strong support for the initiatives of several regional governments to involve this state-owned port operator in developing and operating some local ports across various regions. Pelindo’s involvement in the development and operation of these ports is expected to ensure they operate professionally and efficiently, ultimately boosting regional economic growth.
Some local governments have invited Pelindo to jointly develop their local ports. Recently, Boalemo Regency Government has invited Pelindo, a key player in Indonesia’s national logistics sector, to collaborate on the development of Tilamuta Port in Boalemo, Gorontalo Province. This initiative aims to contribute to the region’s economic progress through a joint effort between the central government and Pelindo.
The elected Regent of Boalemo for the 2025-2030 term, Rum Pagau, made this announcement during a visit to the Pelindo Regional 4 Office in Makassar on Monday, January 13, 2025, to discuss Tilamuta Port’s development.
According Pagau, Tilamuta Port plays a critical role as a strategic infrastructure for the region, offering significant potential to support Boalemo Regency’s economic growth. He highlighted the area’s prominence as a producer of agricultural commodities and other essential industries.
“Boalemo is home to a sugar factory, a palm oil factory, a cooking oil factory, and plans for a rubber factory, chocolate factory, and a palm oil derivative factory,” he explained.
Additionally, Boalemo is the largest corn producer in Gorontalo Province, with half of the regency dedicated to corn cultivation.
Pagau emphasized that proper management of Tilamuta Port could unlock substantial business potential for Boalemo’s commodities. By efficiently managing the port, the local economy would benefit significantly, leading to tangible improvements in the community’s welfare. He also pointed out that, at present, commodities are exported through Anggrek Port in North Gorontalo Regency, and that improving Tilamuta Port’s facilities could facilitate the direct transport of goods from Boalemo.
“We hope to enhance the capacity and facilities of Tilamuta Port to better support connectivity and logistics, especially for our key commodities,” said Pagau. “Tilamuta Port is not only a vital infrastructure for Boalemo but also serves as a key gateway to the region’s economic development. We are optimistic that through synergy between the regional government and Pelindo, the port’s development will significantly improve the community’s prosperity.”
Earlier, Pelindo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Boalemo Regency Government to collaborate on the pilotage of Tilamuta Port. Pelindo’s Executive Director for Regional 4, Abdul Azis, expressed enthusiasm for the regional government’s initiative, noting that the port’s development holds great promise for the area.
“Pelindo is committed to continuing our collaboration with the Boalemo Regency Government and other stakeholders to maximize the potential of Tilamuta Port,” Azis stated. “We recognize the importance of this partnership and will conduct technical and strategic studies to ensure that the port development aligns with regional needs and capabilities.”
This visit marks the first concrete step toward realizing the development of Tilamuta Port. Pelindo Regional 4 remains committed to delivering top-tier services while contributing to regional economic development through efficient, modern, and sustainable port management practices.