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TERNATE – The Halal Bihalal event organized by the Regional Board of the Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) of North Maluku was held at the Muara Hotel Ballroom on March 12, 2025. The event was attended by North Maluku Governor Sherly Laos and Vice Governor H. Sarbin Sehe.

In her remarks, Governor Sherly Laos expressed heartfelt greetings and asked for forgiveness on behalf of herself and the provincial government in the spirit of togetherness during the Halal Bihalal gathering of the North Maluku Apindo family.

The Governor acknowledged that there may have been past divisions among Apindo's leadership and members.

“Looking ahead, I hope we can unite to build North Maluku together, so that our double-digit economic growth can be sustained,” she stated.

She noted that only two provinces in Indonesia—West Papua and North Maluku—have recorded double-digit economic growth. She described this achievement as both a blessing and a responsibility. Despite facing national and global economic challenges, North Maluku has maintained strong performance, although growth has declined from 27% to 23%, and last year stood at 13%.

“My hope is that in 2025 we can maintain double-digit growth,” Governor Sherly added.

She also emphasized that Apindo is a strategic partner in driving economic growth and job creation to improve public welfare.

She encouraged open communication between Apindo and the provincial government, assuring that the government remains receptive to dialogue and joint problem-solving to ensure North Maluku’s continued economic progress.

“Growth cannot stand alone. We need strong collaboration and synergy among entrepreneurs, the government, and workers. This collaboration is the strength that will enable North Maluku to sustain its double-digit economic growth,” said the province’s first female governor.

In closing, Governor Sherly highlighted the administration’s commitment, along with Vice Governor Sarbin, to pursuing food self-sufficiency as part of President Prabowo’s Asta Cita (Eight Priorities) program. The goal is to reduce dependence on food imports by empowering local businesses.

“We should already be self-sufficient in rice, chilies, tomatoes, eggs, and poultry. This is my short-term plan, and within the next two years, I hope we will see significant progress. I look forward to strong collaboration between the government, Apindo, and all supporting institutions,” she concluded.

Meanwhile, North Maluku Apindo Chairman Gazali Abd. Muthalib expressed the association’s support for provincial government programs, particularly in developing Sofifi, creating jobs, and driving stronger economic growth.

“We are ready. In North Maluku, we’ve already formed a forum of regional entrepreneurs comprising around 20 business associations. This allows us to work together,” said Gazali.

He added that the Halal Bihalal gathering served as an opportunity to restore relationships following recent divisions.

“Let’s put the past behind us and come together again as entrepreneurs to push forward better programs in the future,” Gazali urged.

Also in attendance were Chair of the North Maluku Family Welfare Empowerment Team Rusni Sarbin, North Halmahera Deputy Regent Dr. Kasman Hi. Ahmad, Bank Indonesia’s North Maluku Representative Head Dwi Putra Indrawan, the Provincial Head of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), and members of the Indonesian Employers' Association.

Source: malutprov.go.id