PONTIANAK - Welcoming all delegates of BIMP-EAGA in Pontianak City, the Mayor invited the delegates in welcome dinner at Pontianak Convention Center, Thursday (24/11/2022). The government of Pontianak served the delegates some local food such as, ikan kakap asam pedas (sour sweet largemouth bass fish), largemouth bass fish rojak, stir-fry vegetables, etc.
Edi, Mayor of Pontianak City expressed that it was an honor for Pontianak welcoming all delegates. moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has reminded us that the change to be gathered and having dinner together is very precious moment.
"We are grateful that can be gathered and enjoy the dinner with all delegates face to face. On behalf of government and the people of Pontianak City, I welcome you to this Khatulistiwa (Equator) City, Pontianak," he said at the welcome remarks.
Edi exposed the geographic and social situation of Pontianak City. Kapuas River is the admiration for the capital city of West Kalimantan Province that offers interesting river life and unique to be enjoyed as tourism attraction. All the guests are invited to spend the time after meeting to explore and enjoy Pontianak City.
"You can walk on the promenade, go on boat along the river seeing the social life of the riverbank, observing the history of Pontianak in Kadriyah Empire and Jami Mosque. Besides, you can also enjoy the local food in the city," Edi said.
Pontianak, the capital city of West Kalimantan has strategic role as connector not only intra-city in West Kalimantan and Indonesia, but also intra neighborhood countries, such as Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam. Related to the theme of BIMP-EAGA 2022, 'Support Competitiveness and Climate Resilience', it is in line with the vision of Pontianak City to implement eco-friendly city, smart and dignify with prosperous, creative and competitive people. The spirit implemented by enhancing the competitiveness and maintaining environment sustainability.
"The more risks related climate, the more essential our cooperation improving the risks adaptation and mitigation of climate as well as enhancing the resilience", he said.
Edi considered that the climate change increases vulnerability of Pontianak City. Extreme weather caused the city susceptible to flood in rainy season and fire forest in hot season. The government is committed to improve the environment quality and governance as well as improving the climate resilience.
"I believe, through this meeting, we can learn from each other, under the unit of BIMP-EAGA realizing good development for the globe and people," He concluded.
The ministers from the four countries were invited in the agenda. The Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Mr. Airlangga Hartanto represented Indonesia. Prime Minister's Office and Minister of Finance and Economy II Ministry of Finance and Economy, Dato Seri Setia and Dr. Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew Bin Abdullah represented Brunei Darussalam. Prime Minister Department (Economic), Dato Sri Mustapa Bin Mohamed represented Malaysia. lastly, Chairman Mindanao Development Authority Sec Maria Belen S Acosta represented Philippines.
