The Coordinating Maritime Affairs Ministry confirmed that it had prepared development plans for Masela blocks neighborhood in Maluku by accelerating the development of transportation infrastructure, other supporting facilities, and human resources.

Ministers Expert for Regional Development of the Coordinating Maritime Affairs Ministry Bambang Susanto Priyohadi noted that it had coordinated with the related ministries and institutions to boost development in the region.

"Apart from infrastructure development, it is necessary to prepare government instruments and human resources in the region," he stated at a discussion with journalists here on Thursday.

To expedite development in the area, Priyohadi said it was working with the National Development Planning Agency, which had prepared development plans for the area around Masela Block.

The development efforts encompassed the establishment of a vocational training center to churn out skilled human resources to support industrial development in the region.

"We will change the paradigm of development in the region to become a driver of economic growth in Maluku," he affirmed.

Ministers Expert for Energy of the Coordinating Maritime Affairs Ministry Haposan Napitupulu stated that the paradigm for the management of natural resources should be changed from the scheme of dredging, suction, cutting, and exports to one that offers more added value.

Thus, the development of the Masela Block area was expected to serve as a driving force for economic growth in the region.

"Hence, a change in paradigm will not only help to generate money but will also act a driving force for economic growth and development in the region," he added.(*)