Indonesian VP Gibran Highlights Road Issues During Sumatra Visit

Indonesian Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka is undertaking a working visit to Sumatra this week, with a significant focus on addressing infrastructure deficiencies, particularly the pervasive issue of damaged roads.

During his stop in Lampung Province on Wednesday, July 15, Gibran directly addressed the persistent complaints he receives regarding the poor condition of local roads. He stated that this infrastructure problem is a primary concern for the community and pledged to bring these issues to the attention of the central government for follow-up action. "When I come to Lampung, the complaints are always about the roads," Gibran remarked during a dialogue with residents and farmers in East Lampung.

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When I come to Lampung, the complaints are always about the roads. Later, infrastructure issues, cassava and other matters, we will consult again with the leadership, so that Lampung gets special attention.

Gibran stressed that the responsibility for road maintenance should not be a point of contention between provincial and local governments, nor the central government. He explained that each region faces budget constraints, necessitating support from the national level. "The issue of roads, asphalt, I don't think it's necessary to point fingers at the governor or the regent. Each region indeed has budget limitations, fiscal limitations," said the eldest son of former President Joko Widodo.

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The issue of roads, asphalt, I don't think it's necessary to point fingers at the governor or the regent. Each region indeed has budget limitations, fiscal limitations.

To demonstrate the urgency, Gibran visited the damaged Way Bungur Bridge, which has been impassable since 2016, forcing residents and students to cross the river by boat. He expressed concern over the prolonged disruption to access. The Vice President assured that the central government would collaborate with regional authorities to expedite repairs on critical road segments that are vital for public mobility and economic activities. He committed to prioritizing road sections that significantly support the economy.

Following his visit to Lampung, Gibran was scheduled to continue his tour to South Sumatra Province on Thursday, July 16. Preparations were in place for his visits to Palembang, including the Siti Fatimah Regional General Hospital, the Musi V Bridge construction site on the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, and the Keramasan Waste-to-Energy facility.

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We will try to ensure that the road sections that need to be repaired, especially those supporting economic activities, will be prioritized.