Aceh, UAE discuss investment opportunities

Aceh Governor Muzakkir Manaf and Deputy Governor Fadhlullah received a visit from the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Indonesia Abdulla Salem Al Dhaheri and Mubadala Energy President Director for Indonesia Abdulla Bu Ali. The visit aims to discuss investment opportunities in Aceh, especially in the tourism, agricultural, energy, infrastructure, and special economic zone (SEZ) sectors.

"The Aceh region is supported by a strategic geographical location in international trade and supported by good resources, of course if managed this will provide benefits," said Muzakir when receiving a visit from UAE representatives at the Aceh Governor's Office on Mar. 10, 2025.

Mubadala Energy is a subsidiary of UAE-based Mubadala Investment Company PJSC that does business in the oil and gas industry.

"We know that investments to Aceh from both domestic and foreign investors has continued to increase. In addition, Aceh  has the best gas potential in Sumatra, with several active working blocks and exploration opportunities in a number of its regions," Muzakir explained.

In his presentation, Muzakir conveyed potential investments in Aceh, including infrastructure in the Arun Lhokseumawe SEZ that supports chemical energy, such as blue and green ammonia produced from a combination of nitrogen with blue or green hydrogen, respectively. The Aceh Government offers various incentives for investments, including tax allowances and the provision of the Arun SEZ and the Sabang Free Trade and Free Port Zone Management Agency (BPKS).

On the same occasion, PT Pembangunan Aceh (Perseroda), or PT PEMA, President Director Mawardi Nur welcomed the visit by the UAAE Ambassador to Indonesia and Mubadala Energy.

"As one of Aceh's regional government-owned enterprises, PT PEMA plays a role in encouraging development, economic [growth], and increasing Aceh's locally-generated revenue (PAA). PT PEMA is ready to Foster synergy with all stakeholders. both from in and out of the country," he added.

PT PEMA is currently focused not only on the oil and gas sector, but it has also developed various other strategic sectors, such as agribusinesses which include coffee plantations, fisheries, palm shell exports, as well as ventures in the service and trade sectors.

The visit is expected to help establish closer partnership between Aceh and global investors to increase economic growth and the welfare of the Acehnese people.

The meeting was also attended by the Regional Assistant, SKPA, BUMD, BPMA, and other ranks of the Aceh Government.