The Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) of Samarinda City is urging the municipal state-owned enterprise (BUMD) Perumda Varia Niaga to focus more on developing its business line in assist tugboat services along the Mahakam River crossing. This tactical move is considered to have great potential in boosting Local Original Revenue (PAD) amid the increasing flow of river shipping and logistics.
Chairman of Commission II of the Samarinda DPRD, Iswandi, revealed that this vessel piloting and escort service sector has so far been the most productive business pillar managed by Perumda Varia Niaga. Compared to other business units, the potential of the maritime business in East Kalimantan's main waterway remains wide open for massive development.
Based on the financial report evaluation conducted by the legislature, the contribution of the assist tugboat business far exceeds other business sectors run by the company, such as parking management in the Tepian Mahakam area and the sharia lodging business. Therefore, repositioning the business focus to the most profitable sector is deemed a highly rational strategic step.
Iswandi believes that the board of directors of Perumda Varia Niaga has the capability to expand the market. The background of some management members, who are former practitioners within PT Pelindo, serves as valuable capital in the form of a deep understanding of port operations, logistics, and maritime services.
To realize this target, the DPRD requested the management to immediately formulate a more mature business roadmap and utilize information technology integration to optimize operational services. In addition, synergy with various Regional Government Organizations (OPD) within the Samarinda City Government must also be strengthened for smooth regulation and ease of licensing.
Nevertheless, Iswandi reminded that this business expansion must still be carried out within the corridor of Good Corporate Governance. The principles of transparency and accountability are considered absolute to maintain customer trust while ensuring the sustainability of the BUMD as a financially healthy contributor to local revenue.
