
Companies under Sinar Mas Forestry (SMF) are asked to provide tangible support for the South Sumatera SEA Games XXVI. Many other companies has also done the same.
The appeal was made by South Sumatera Governor, H. Alex Noerdin during a national workshop seminar, PDRB Green Economic Palembang, Tuesday (12/4) at Novotel Hotel. Also included during the event was the signing of an education MoU.
During the opening, Alex explained that South Sumatera now needs investors to increase the economic development of the province. Therefore, South Sumatera tried its best to be voted as one of the hosts of the SEA Games XXVI. After winning the vote, investments have been pouring in, one of which is the railway construction by PT Adani Global from KA Batubara to Tanjung Api-Api.
In addition, the Governor has also invited both local and overseas investors to build SEA Games venues and supporting facilities. Such investors include PT BA, who contributed to the tennis venue; Conoco Philips, who contributed water treatment; Bosowa, who constructed power plants; and many more.
“We need funds for South Sumatera, and the large amount of investments will create job opportunities, enhance businesses, further developing South Sumatera. Thus, on behalf of the Provincial Government of South Sumatera, I thank Sinar Mas for their contribution in developing South Sumatera and for their spiritual support towards a successful SEA Games,” thanked the Governor.
In addition, the Governor also expects Sinar Mas Forestry to provide tangible support for the SEA Games, as many other large companies in South Sumatera are doing at the moment. This is surely not too much of a request, considering that Sinar Mas Forestry controls almost a million hectares of South Sumatera’s forestry. The contribution may be given in any form, although venue construction is not required considering that almost all venues are being constructed and are nearing completion.
“We have most of what we need, but any form of contribution will be much appreciated, whether it’s funds for the local government, equipment for the Athlete Village, commodities, or anything at all. Needless to say, these contributions will not be for my personal use, but for South Sumatera. Bear in mind that such contributions can also benefit Sinar Mas as their brand will be widely known by the public and future generations,” said the Governor.
Alex also added the the workshop he attended will be useful for South Sumatera as it emphasizes the steps needed to be taken to support the development of South Sumatera, particular its green economy through PDRB.
Vice President of ERD Coord South Sumatera Sinar Mas Forestry, Eddy Makhmud said that his company will need to do an analysis and propose a plan to its management. “Earlier, we provided contributions during the beginning stages: landscaping several hectares in Jakabiring. However, we will provide further support. As all venues are almost completed, we will provide contributions in terms of cash to be channeled to several other projects. We are yet to calculate the amount of such contributions, but it will likely be taken from CSR fundings or other resources. No matter what, together with the people of South Sumatera, we will ensure a successful SEA Games,” promised Eddy.
Eddy also commented on the workshop, explaining that in terms of forestry, his company wishes to increase a green PDRB with various plants to increase the local economy as well as preserving the environment. When asked about the education MoU, Eddy explained that his company does pay attention to education and is in accordance with the government education program. “We are working together with Unsri to establish a diploma education in forestry. We expect that the cooperation will begin as soon as possible.