The Provincial Government of the Bangka Belitung Islands is set to undertake an economic transformation, beginning with the mining sector and extending to non-mining sectors in an effort to revive the region's economy. Acting Governor Sugito stated that the government would prioritize the agriculture, plantation, and fisheries sectors in this process. "Additionally, we will optimize tourism and creative industries, including MSMEs and other related sectors," Sugito said on Monday, January 6, 2025.
The provincial government has also held discussions with the Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD) of the Bangka Belitung Islands to establish short- and medium-term policies. "For the medium-term, we will focus on policy aspects, political support, and institutional evaluations," Sugito explained. In the short term, the focus will be on a national program introduced by President Joko Widodo, which includes providing free nutritious food starting in 2025. Sugito also highlighted the Ministry of Village’s directive, which mandates that at least 20% of village funds be allocated to food security, noting that this could translate to approximately IDR 60 billion circulating within Bangka Belitung. The funds will be carefully managed to support local food security and reduce dependence on imported goods like vegetables and eggs.
