Kepulauan Riau celebrates 24th anniversary and approves 2026 budget

The Riau Islands (Kepri) province celebrated its 24th anniversary with a focus on economic achievements and budget adjustments. Governor Ansar Ahmad and the regional government officially approved the 2026 Revised Regional Budget (APBD Perubahan) totaling Rp3.63 trillion. Key allocations include Rp1.06 trillion for education and Rp938.16 billion for public service infrastructure.

Economic indicators for the province remain positive, with year-on-year growth reaching 6.99 percent in the second quarter of 2026. Investment realization in the first half of the year hit Rp40.38 trillion, meeting 98 percent of the national target. The Governor emphasized the need for equitable development, particularly in infrastructure and education for remote areas like Karimun and Lingga.

Amidst the celebrations, local political and social dynamics were noted. The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) Kepri chose not to invite the Governor to their leadership inauguration following a lack of response to previous communications. Additionally, the Chairman of the Kepri DPRD, Iman Sutiawan, addressed upcoming regional elections, stating that current priorities remain legislative duties and addressing public aspirations.