inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian National Border Management Agency (BNPP) is encouraging a new economic development strategy in the country's border areas through downstreaming of superior commodities and strengthening the local tourism sector to improve the welfare of the community and MSMEs around the State Border Crossing Posts (PLBN).

Deputy for Border Area Potential Management of BNPP Edfrie R Maith explained that the economic strengthening strategy will focus on the areas where 11 active PLBNs are located which are the gateways for exports and imports to neighboring countries such as Malaysia, Timor Leste, and Papua New Guinea.

"We plan for the processing industry to grow directly on the border. There are potential commodities from agriculture, inland and marine fisheries that can be further processed to add value," said Maith in his statement, Saturday (5/17/2025).

He emphasized that downstreaming provides a great opportunity to create jobs and strengthen local industries. However, this process also requires adequate infrastructure and a lot of investment.

"If we only sell raw materials, we can make a quick profit. But this makes us vulnerable to market fluctuations and misses out on great potential," he said.

In addition to downstreaming, BNPP is also preparing a strategy for developing tourism based on culture and local wisdom. This includes building destination connectivity, amenities, and promotional collaboration with local communities and social media.

"After the connectivity is complete, we will combine it with attractions such as Pekan Gawai Dayak in Kalimantan or religious events in NTT," explained Maith.

(ad/inp/pr/nm)