Jakarta – The construction and development of the Mandalika International Circuit in West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) have emerged as a pivotal long-term investment to foster equitable development and promote Indonesia-centric growth. Helson Siagian, a Senior Advisor of the Executive Office of the President (KSP), addressed concerns regarding the circuit’s Rp 4.6 trillion debt, emphasizing its significance in achieving balanced development across the country.
“The development of this circuit is a carefully planned initiative aimed at creating a new tourism center, particularly in NTB. It serves as tangible evidence of President Jokowi’s commitment to ensuring balanced development in Indonesia,” stated Helson, on Friday (16/6).
Helson further emphasized that the utilization of the Mandalika Circuit as a venue for international racing events, including MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, WSBK, and the Asian Talent Cup, has yielded substantial and sustainable multiplier effects. The recent success of the WSBK 2023 event alone had a remarkable Rp 5 trillion impact on Indonesia’s economic landscape.
“We, at KSP, firmly believe that in the forthcoming years, the development of the Mandalika Circuit will yield even greater outcomes, further strengthening NTB as one of the sustainable Super Priority Tourism Destinations,” added Helson.
Regarding the removal of the World Superbike event, Siagian stressed that it should not be a point of contention. He underscored the multitude of international events that can still be organized at the Mandalika Circuit, attracting quality tourists and enthusiasts, such as the Porsche Challenge and L’Etape Indonesia by Tour de France. “Of course, MotoGP is also on the list,” the Senior Advisor remarked.
The Pertamina Mandalika International Circuit, situated in the Mandalika Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Central Lombok, NTB, spans a track length of 4.31 kilometers, featuring 17 turns and expansive run-off areas. Inaugurated by President Joko Widodo in 2021, the circuit was designed as a street circuit, ensuring its availability to the public when no racing events are taking place.
The Mandalika Circuit’s contribution to long-term investments, job creation, and equitable development continues to position it as a cornerstone of Indonesia’s aspirations for a thriving motorsports industry. As the nation eagerly awaits its forthcoming events, the Mandalika Circuit stands as a symbol of Indonesia’s determination to carve a prominent place on the global motorsports stage.
