New NTT Immigration Chief Vows to Strengthen Public Services, Expand Reach
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The new head of the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Immigration Office, Saroha Manullang, aims to strengthen public services and expand immigration access across the province.
- Manullang will focus on enhancing regional cooperation and developing immigration infrastructure in the island province, which borders Timor Leste and Australia.
- Key priorities include establishing new immigration units and offices to improve accessibility for residents and strengthening border surveillance.
The newly appointed Head of the East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Immigration Office, Saroha Manullang, has pledged to prioritize strengthening public services and expanding the reach of immigration services across the province. Officially sworn in, Manullang emphasized his commitment to fostering synergy with regional governments and developing essential immigration infrastructure in this strategically important island province.
Manullang stated that leadership transitions are a continuation of service aimed at reinforcing collaboration. His goal is to bring immigration services closer to the people while robustly safeguarding national sovereignty in Indonesia's eastern region. He specifically highlighted the importance of enhancing immigration services and border surveillance, particularly given NTT's position bordering Timor Leste and Australia.
Recognizing NTT's archipelagic nature, Manullang plans to expand access to immigration services by establishing new Immigration Work Units (UKK) and proposing new immigration offices in areas with high demand. This initiative addresses the current challenge where many residents must travel significant distances to access services like passport applications.
Furthermore, the office will bolster immigration oversight at border areas and international entry points to support national security and ensure efficient services for tourists and businesspeople. Manullang also committed to continuing strategic programs initiated by his predecessor, including enhancing digital public services, strengthening foreign national monitoring, and collaborating with local governments to boost economic development and tourism.
Saroha Manullang succeeds Arvin Gumilang, who has been assigned a new role as the Head of the Immigration Office for West Sumatra. Gumilang expressed confidence that the achievements made during his tenure, particularly in public service enhancement, would be continued by the new leadership. With this new leadership, the NTT Immigration Office is optimistic about strengthening its role as a front-line guardian.
With the spirit of Immigration for the People, I hope for the support of all parties so that NTT Immigration can continue to work, serve, and have an impact on the people of NTT.
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.