Jakarta (VNA)♚ – Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on June 25 emphasised that Sanur Health Special Economic Zone (SEZ) is a breakthrough, marking the first time the country has established a SEZ specialising in the health sector.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Sanur Health SEZ and Bali International Hospital (BIH) in Denpasar, Bali, on June 25, Prabowo expressed his belief that this will offer healthcare services at a global standard. He appreciated the efforts of all stakeholders, especially former President Joko Widodo, who initiated this national strategic project, and foreign investors who contributed to the realisation of the Sanur Health SEZ. According to the Indonesian leader, the zone is one of the solutions for Indonesia to catch up with other countries, especially in the health sector, and should be replicated in other sectors. He also affirmed that the Indonesian government will be accountable for every penny of the people's tax money. The 41.26-ha Sanur Health SEZ is expected to attract about 10.2 trillion IDR (about 620 million USD) in investment and create more than 43,000 jobs. The project is expected to attract between 123,000 and 240,000 patients by 2030, especially Indonesians who previously had to travel abroad for medical treatment. Reducing the number of patients going abroad is projected to save about 86 trillion IDR in foreign currency and has the potential to increase foreign exchange earnings. President Prabowo hopes BIH will attract patients from across Southeast Asia and the Pacific. BIH, located in the Sanur Health SEZ, occupies an area of 67,465 sq.m. The hospital offers specialised leading health services on oncology, cardiology, emergency services, integrated clinics, radiology and radiotherapy, and medical check-ups./.