Apart from the forestry and timber sectors, the wholesale trade sector is considered one of the open investment opportunities in Tarakan, according to Sugeng, the Head of the Tarakan Investment and One-Stop Integrated Service Office (DPMPTSP). Sugeng highlighted that there is potential in establishing malls combined with recreational facilities or play areas. “I believe investment in large-scale trade combined with recreational infrastructure is promising,” he said, citing examples like Matahari malls integrated with limited recreational spaces such as Trans Studio. Currently, Tarakan lacks malls that combine shopping and recreational areas, with existing shopping centers deemed standard. The city's growing population, now reaching 271,000 according to the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), supports this investment opportunity. Sugeng noted that Matahari had previously considered investing in Tarakan at the GTM location, but due to unresolved management disputes, the plan was shelved.

Source: https://rri.co.id/investasi/1030220/investasi-di-sektor-perdagangan-terbuka-di-tarakan