West Papua, Conch Group discuss renewable energy investment

The West Papua Provincial Government and the Conch Group discussed plans to develop investment in the renewable energy sector and increase the capacity of the cement industry operating in Manokwari Regency, West Papua. West Papua Deputy Governor Mohamad Lakotani, in an official statement on May 26, 2026, stated that the regional government appreciates Conch Group's commitment to expanding renewable energy investments, which aligns with the vision of sustainable development.

"The concept of renewable energy and industrialization discussed at the meeting in Wuhu City, Anhui Province, China, on Sunday (May 24t, 2026), aligns with West Papua's development vision," Lakotani said.

He expected that the implementation of the renewable energy and industrialization investment development concept will improve the quality of human resources (HR), particularly the local workforce, while simultaneously boosting regional economic growth. The development of renewable energy-based investments and downstream industries must be maximized in line with a commitment to empowering local communities so that the benefits of development can be distributed evenly throughout West Papua.

"We also strive to ensure that every investment creates a multiplier effect by creating jobs, improving workforce skills, and strengthening MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises)," he said.

Lakotani's visit to Conch Group's headquarters in Wuhu marked the first meeting between the West Papua Provincial Government and the top leadership of the Chinese company, aimed at strengthening opportunities for green investment cooperation and sustainable economic development.

Conch Group Chairman Yang stated that the development of the solar power plant (SPP) project will support more environmentally friendly cement factory operations while providing affordable electricity for the community. Conch Group is committed to supporting investment development in West Papua through environmentally sustainable industrial and energy sectors, while also increasing cement production capacity to support infrastructure development.

"Thank you for the official visit of the West Papua Provincial Government to Conch's headquarters as a step to strengthen our cooperative relationship," he added.

Yang said that Conch Group has prepared a series of cooperation and investment agendas during the Deputy Governor Lakotini's visits to Wuhu, Anhui, and Shanghai related to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) 2026 forum.

"We hope this collaboration will benefit the economic development of West Papua and the local community," he said.