Australia supports improved roads in Eastern Indonesia

Travel times will be cut and road safety improved for people using part of a major West Kalimantan highway being significantly upgraded with support from Australia.

The Australian Ambassador, Bill Farmer, Indonesia’s Minister for Public Works, Ir Djoko Kirmanto, and the Governor of West Kalimantan, Drs. Cornelis M.H, have today launched a road improvement project on the Pontianak–Tayan road.

The 31.5 kilometre stretch of road is an important link in the Trans Kalimantan Highway and Mr Farmer said the upgrade will significantly improve conditions for road users.

“Better roads mean better access to markets, education, hospitals and other services,” Mr Farmer said. “From reducing dust affecting local communities to making it faster and cheaper for traders to transport goods to market - this road improvement will provide practical benefits for the people of West Kalimantan and the economy.”

More than 500 cars, trucks and motorbikes use the stretch of highway every day and this number will increase significantly as motorists choose the upgraded road over longer alternative routes.

Good infrastructure is vital for social and economic development and Australia is committed to supporting Indonesia’s efforts to improve major roads.

This project is one of 20 road and bridge upgrades being supported by Australia in nine provinces in eastern Indonesia. These highways will demonstrate that new approaches to design, contracting and construction extend the life of roads and deliver better value.

The road improvement projects are funded by a highly concessional loan of A$300 million from Australia to Indonesia and a A$30 million grant.

Over four years of construction, the overall road program is expected to generate more than 5,000 construction jobs. Australia’s support is part of the five year, A$2.5 billion dollar Australia Indonesia Partnership.

Media Enquiries:
Natasha Simpson 0812 106 9106 / Mia Salim 0812 107 0237 (AusAID Public Affairs)