They were welcomed by PT Huadi’s Director, Lily Dewi Candigenara, and Yos, a representative of the company’s owner, along with the Bantaeng Regional Secretary. In his introductory remarks, Acting Governor Bahtiar explained the purpose of the visit. He highlighted the remarkable transformation of Bantaeng, which was once barren but has now flourished, partly due to investments like those from PT Huadi, which employs 85 percent of local residents. Bantaeng’s Regional Secretary, Muh. Rivai Nur, supported this observation.

“Previously, this area was very arid. During the tenure of  Nurdin Abdullah (former Governor of South Sulawesi and Bantaeng’s regent), we established the Bantaeng Industrial Zone (KIBA). We actively approached investors with presentations, and Pak NA instructed us not to return until we secured the principle permit,” Rivai stated.

PT Huadi operates a smelting plant on a 100-hectare site within the Bantaeng Industrial Zone. The company sources nickel ore from mines in Southeast Sulawesi and Central Sulawesi. Since its establishment in Bantaeng, PT Huadi has contributed IDR 5 billion per month to the local government’s revenue.

Lily Dewi Candigenara, PT Huadi’s Director, acknowledged that Bantaeng initially did not attract investor interest, including from PT Huadi itself. However, she praised the local government, particularly the regional leaders, for their support and trust in investors, including efficient services and human resources.

Lily expressed hope that the Sulawesi Barat government’s visit would be beneficial for PT Huadi and anticipated the possibility of future investments in Sulawesi Barat. “We hope that what we have achieved can benefit the people of Sulbar. We look forward to potentially visiting Sulbar or exploring new investment opportunities there. We aim for a fruitful synergy,” she said.