HARIANEXPRESS – Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs (Menko Polkam) General TNI (Ret.) Djamari Chaniago stressed the urgent need for expanded transport infrastructure, particularly railways, in Kalimantan to strengthen inter-regional connectivity and accelerate economic development. (1/8/2026)
Minister Djamari highlighted that Kalimantan’s vast territory and its rich, yet dispersed, natural resources necessitate an extensive and adequate transportation network. This infrastructure is crucial for effectively linking various regions across the island.
The development of an integrated transportation system aims to enhance community mobility and facilitate the efficient distribution of goods. Furthermore, it will encourage more optimal management of the region’s diverse economic potentials.
These significant remarks were delivered during his working visit and a friendly gathering with local government officials in Banjarbaru, South Kalimantan. The minister’s visit underscored the federal government’s focus on regional development.
Djamari stressed that the construction of a railway network in Kalimantan must receive serious attention from all stakeholders. He views land connectivity as a fundamental factor for effectively connecting the five large provinces within Kalimantan.
These five provinces cover an exceptionally large area and harbor substantial economic potential. Therefore, Djamari underscored the critical importance of realizing this comprehensive transportation development concept.
“Bidang transportasi saja, di Kalimantan ini membutuhkan kereta api berapa banyak? Konsep itu jangan hanya bicara, harus terealisasikan,” ujar Djamari Chaniago.
In addition to railway lines, the strengthening of road infrastructure is also vital for robust connectivity. Air and sea ports must also be reinforced in a coordinated and integrated manner.
The synergy of all these transportation modes is essential to improve inter-regional connectivity throughout Kalimantan. Such enhanced linkages promise significant benefits for all segments of society.
Integrated connectivity supports smoother movements of both people and goods, which in turn will stimulate various economic activities across Kalimantan’s diverse regions. Djamari views this development not merely as a present need.
Instead, he sees it as an integral part of a long-term strategy designed to strengthen the overall competitiveness of the Kalimantan region in the future. He concluded,
“Kami berharap perhatian terhadap pembangunan konektivitas terus ditingkatkan sehingga potensi besar Kalimantan dapat memberikan manfaat yang lebih luas bagi masyarakat dan mendukung pertumbuhan daerah,” ujar Djamari Chaniago.
