Senator Mirah States SAMOTA Special Economic Zone (SEZ) Must Be Thoroughly Prepared to Become an Economic Engine for Sumbawa

31 July 2026 oleh admin

Sumbawa, dpd.go.id – DPD RI member representing the West Nusa Tenggara electoral district, Mirah Midadan Fahmid, welcomed the steps taken by the Sumbawa Regency Government, which is currently preparing the Saleh Bay, Moyo Island, and Mount Tambora (SAMOTA) region as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ). According to her, the idea is a strategic opportunity to strengthen Sumbawa's position as a premier national and international destination in tourism, the blue economy, and sustainable investment (31/07).

However, Senator Mirah noted that information regarding the readiness of administrative documents which currently stands at around 10 percent must receive shared attention. She emphasized that the establishment process of the SEZ must not be rushed, but rather built on thorough, data-driven planning supported by the readiness of all stakeholders.

“An SEZ is not merely about designating a status to a region; it is a long-term commitment that will determine the direction of regional development. Therefore, all administrative requirements, potential studies, and infrastructure readiness must be ensured to meet the standards set by the central government,” said Senator Mirah.

According to her, SAMOTA possesses extraordinary natural wealth that few other regions share. The presence of Saleh Bay as a marine biodiversity hub, Moyo Island with its world-class eco-tourism, the Mount Tambora area with historical and geotourism value, as well as whale shark habitats and international shipping lanes, serve as significant assets to turn the region into a leading destination rooted in conservation and a sustainable economy.

The vast potential and responsibility of managing this region are reflected in UNESCO data. The SAMOTA Biosphere Reserve spans approximately 724,631 hectares, comprising 364,509 hectares of land and 360,123 hectares of sea area, and encompasses the livelihoods of around 146,660 residents. This scale demonstrates that regional development needs to consider the interconnectedness between economic activities, ecosystem protection, and the sustainability of community livelihoods.

Nevertheless, Mirah reminded that the success of an SEZ is measured not only by the influx of investment, but also by how directly local communities experience economic benefits. Therefore, she encouraged the development concept of the SAMOTA SEZ to truly prioritize the empowerment of local communities, MSMEs, fishermen, farmers, and local tourism actors as core components of the region's ecosystem.

For perspective, through the end of 2025, 25 SEZs across Indonesia have cumulatively recorded around IDR 336 trillion in investment and absorbed 249,072 workers. These national achievements show that SEZ development carries immense economic potential, but it must be accompanied by measurable targets for investment, job creation, and local economic benefits right from the planning phase.

“We want the people of Sumbawa to be key players, not just spectators in their own home. SEZ development must be capable of creating jobs, improving welfare, strengthening MSMEs, and continuing to preserve the environment,” she stated.

Senator Mirah also noted that coordination among local government, provincial government, central government, academia, the business sector, and the public needs to be strengthened right from the initial drafting stage. Such collaboration will accelerate the completion of various requirements while producing a comprehensive and highly competitive document when submitted to the National SEZ Council.

In addition to administrative aspects, Mirah highlighted the importance of readiness in supporting infrastructure, including transportation connectivity, ports, road access, telecommunications networks, energy, clean water, and environmental management. According to her, all these factors will be primary considerations for investors looking to invest in the SAMOTA region.

She also expressed hope that the development of the SAMOTA SEZ could serve as a strategic bridge connecting the Mandalika SEZ on Lombok Island and the super-priority tourism destination of Labuan Bajo in East Nusa Tenggara. In doing so, the SAMOTA region can become a new growth hub for eastern Indonesia's economy, driven by quality tourism, the blue economy, and environmental conservation.

As a regional representative in the DPD RI, Senator Mirah stated her commitment to continuously advocate for the Sumbawa Regency Government's aspirations and foster synergy with relevant ministries and agencies. This will ensure that the formation of the SAMOTA SEZ proceeds in accordance with regulations and delivers tangible benefits for the people of West Nusa Tenggara.

“SAMOTA’s potential is already globally recognized. Our task now is to ensure that all preparations are carried out professionally, measurably, and oriented toward the public interest. With strong collaboration, I am optimistic that the SAMOTA SEZ will become a new economic motor capable of elevating the welfare of the Sumbawa community while solidifying Indonesia's standing in the global tourism and blue economy sectors,” Senator Mirah concluded.