The Governor of East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Melki Laka Lena, has stated that the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries has allocated IDR 1 trillion for the development of a 1,000-hectare salt industry in Rote Timur Sub-district, Rote Ndao Regency. This investment signifies the commitment to establishing a salt industry hub in NTT. Investment is currently in progress and is scheduled to commence this year. Alongside Rote, Sabu Raijua Regency is also being considered by the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries. Furthermore, foreign or private investments are being explored for Malaka, Kupang Regency, and East Sumba. The realisation of these investments is expected to facilitate community involvement in the industry while ensuring environmental sustainability.
The Rote Ndao Regent, Paulus Henuk, has also confirmed the development plans. On 16 May 2025, the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries sent the Director General of Marine Management, Koswara, to map potential locations in Rote Ndao Regency. These assessments are intended to provide a technical and ecological feasibility study to support the salt industry. The selection of Rote Ndao Regency was based on its low rainfall and high salinity levels, which can support the needs of the salt industry. This initiative aims to address the current reliance on imported salt, which currently stands at 50% of demand, by ensuring the domestic production of salt meets the stringent industry standards.
