The Maluku Provincial Government is spearheading efforts to expedite seafood exports through Pattimura Airport, aiming to boost the region's economy. Hadi Basalamah, the Chairman of the Governor's Team for Development Acceleration (TGPP) in Maluku, emphasized the need for direct flights to importing countries to enhance local economic growth. Speaking at a meeting on Maluku's export development with private sector representatives involved in export activities, Basalamah stressed the importance of serious commitment and responsiveness from all relevant parties. Negotiations on cargo prices tailored to existing demands should be undertaken to facilitate the acceleration of seafood exports through air transport. The targeted timeline for the program's implementation is within one to two weeks before the end of December. This allows for the recalibration of newer calculation models, ensuring the program's momentum in December. Currently, Maluku's seafood supply stands at 15 tons, adjusted to the carrier's cargo quota, while the demand reaches 20 tons.
Basalamah expressed optimism, stating that adding an additional three tons in the near future could resolve the supply-demand gap. Seafood from Maluku includes vannamei shrimp, tuna, live grouper, mangrove crabs, and sea cucumbers. The implementation of direct flights is anticipated to uphold Pattimura Airport's status as an international airport. To achieve this, support from various stakeholders, including customs, Pelindo (Indonesian Port Corporation), and airport authorities, is crucial. Basalamah emphasized the importance of maintaining communication and expressed optimism that direct flights could commence within the next one to two weeks. He thanked all parties involved in the program, highlighting the collective commitment to working consistently in line with the Governor's directives. The event was attended by leaders of relevant agencies within the Maluku Provincial Government, heads of vertical institutions, private sector representatives, and other related stakeholders. The collaboration and support from all involved entities are seen as pivotal to the success of the program, contributing to the overall economic development of the region.
