Batam seeks to revive shipyard industry

The Mayor of Batam in the Riau Islands Province, Muhammad Rudi, said that the government wants to revive the local shipyard industry, which once was known as the finest shipyard throughout Asia Pacific.

Muhammad Rudi was quoted by state news agency Antara saying Monday that the plan include the development of new infrastructure facilities including roads in the Sagulung and Batuaji areas, which were known as the ship-building centers in Batam.

"We will begin operating the shipyard again, and will rebuild the road going to the industrial area," said the mayor.

He stated that the government also wanted to improve the roads in Batuaji and Sagulung to support the shipbuilding industry, while at the same time aiding the local community.

"We want to revive Batu Aji and Sagulung. They used to make their livings from the shipyard," he said. (*)