President Prabowo Subianto emphasized the importance of the strategic development of the area near the new Kabanaran Bridge connecting Bantul and Kulonprogo. He mentioned that the construction of the bridge will boost tourism in Yogyakarta and enhance economic growth in the region.
During the bridge's opening ceremony, Prabowo mentioned that the new infrastructure would make it easier for both visitors and residents to travel, as well as creating possibilities for businesses to grow and attract more investments.
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“Later, the hotels around here will be designed with our own architectural identity, ensuring harmony with local culture and the surrounding environment,” the President says.
He stated that the project aligns with Asta Cita's third mission, which aims to generate high-quality employment opportunities, foster entrepreneurship, boost creative sectors, and further infrastructure development across the country.
Prabowo mentioned that, prior to the bridge being opened, residents and tourists had to take long alternate routes to get to places on either side of the Progo River, which hindered movement and restricted economic growth.
The anticipated result of the new route is to stimulate the development of new economic hubs, particularly in the tourism sector.
This will be achieved by improving connections between communities, as well as establishing opportunities for future investments and the growth of local businesses.
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“We hope this bridge will improve tourism, boost economic activity, and provide easier access. Without it, people had to spend extra time taking long detours,” he says.
Prabowo mentioned that the development in the area near the bridge will adhere to a coordinated plan based on suggestions from Yogyakarta Governor Sri Sultan Hamengkubuwono X to guarantee cultural and environmental harmony. He stressed that small and medium-sized enterprises will continue to play a crucial role in boosting the local economy and will see advantages from a rise in tourists and better infrastructure.
“We will mentor MSMEs so they maintain cleanliness, provide proper facilities, and serve as primary drivers of tourism activities in this region,” Prabowo says.
The government plans to promote investment in hotels with architecture inspired by Indonesia's traditional style, which will be designed to blend in with the environment and respect the local heritage.
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Prabowo emphasized the importance of incorporating traditional knowledge into the tourism development plan for Kabanaran Bridge, with the aim of ensuring that any growth in the area reflects and supports the local community's identity and ensures long-term sustainability.