State port operator PT Pelindo IV is planning to build dry port in Sidenreng Rappang (Sidrap) Regency, South Sulawesi, in a bid to encourage the export commodities from the region.
To realize the plan, Pelindo IV has just signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with both the Provincial Government of South Sulawesi and the Local Government of Sidrap Regency on Thursday, August 19.
On his remark speech for the MoU, South Sulawesi Acting Governor Andi Sudirman sent appreciation for this plan, expecting this dry port would become a hub and cargo transit point for commodities to and from north part of South Sulawesi.
“We expect this dry port will become a transit point of cargo distribution to and from the north part of South Sulawesi and will encourage export from this region. We also expect this dry port will help to minimize traffic jam,” Acting Governor Andi said.
Further, he expects, this dry port will become a centre for Pelindo IV’s land services, thus giving a faster service to exporters and helping to shorten dwelling time at Makassar New Port (MNP).
“This will also support the economy and trade activities growth outside Makassar. The economy and trade activity will not be centralized in Makassar only,” he said
Meanwhile, Pelindo IV President Director Prasetyadi explained that this MoU is basically about the port service affairs and related trade activities at Sidrap Regency.
“With this MoU, Pelindo IV in cooperation Provincial Government of South Sulawesi and the Local Government of Sidrap Regency is planning to develop port facilities and services at Sidrap Regency. This is in view of the economy potencies at the region,” said Prasetyadi.
Sidrap Regent Dollah Mando appreciates this plan and says thanks to Provincial Government of South Sulawesi and Pelindo IV on choosing Sidrap as the location for dry port at the north part of South Sulawesi.
According to Dollah Mando, geographically, Sidrap is very strategic. “We appreciate very much for this plan and thanks to Governor of South Sulawesi and Pelindo IV,” he said.
According to the plan, the dry port will be built on 2-hectare area at Mattirotasi Village, Watang Pulu District. According to Sidrap Regency Spatial Plan (RTRW), this area remains an industrial and warehousing zone.