Aceh Explores Investment Opportunities and Human Resource Development with Singapore

The Wali Nanggroe of Aceh, His Excellency Teungku Malik Mahmud Al-Haythar, is exploring the strengthening of cooperation with Singapore in the fields of education, investment, infrastructure, economic development, and tourism. These efforts were discussed during a meeting with the Consul General of the Republic of Singapore, Dr. Edmund Chia, at the Consulate General of Singapore in Medan, North Sumatra, on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.

Zulfikar Idris, Head of the Cooperation and Public Relations Division for the Wali Nanggroe, stated that the meeting served as a momentum to translate the relationship between the two parties into more concrete collaborative opportunities, particularly in sectors that support Aceh’s development.

During the meeting, the Wali Nanggroe emphasized the importance of cooperation oriented toward the region's development needs. In the field of education, the focus is directed toward enhancing the quality of Aceh’s human resources.

Meanwhile, in the economic and infrastructure sectors, Singapore’s experience is seen as a valuable reference for development in Aceh.

"We can learn from Singapore regarding how to build an economy and infrastructure. If possible, we could also request the support of experts from Singapore to assist directly in the development process in Aceh," said Malik Mahmud.

Beyond education and infrastructure, tourism was also among the sectors discussed. Singapore’s experience in managing tourism destinations is expected to serve as a learning resource for Aceh to strengthen governance, enhance the appeal of its destinations, and unlock investment opportunities.

Cooperation in the tourism sector is also expected to support the economic growth of the local community by developing regional potential and attracting investment.

Singaporean Consul General Dr. Edmund Chia responded positively to the discussions. He noted that the meeting provided an opportunity to map out mutually beneficial cooperation, with a focus on the sectors of tourism, investment, and education. To support this exploration, the Wali Nanggroe was accompanied by a delegation consisting of the Special Staff for Diplomacy and International Cooperation, Dr. Mohammad Raviq; the Head of the Investment Promotion Development Section at the Aceh Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Agency (DPMPTSP Aceh), Abel Muhammad Agung, M.Sc.; and an academic from Aceh, Mohammad Adzannie Bessania.

This meeting has opened avenues for Aceh and Singapore to explore potential collaborations across several strategic sectors. Further, more technical discussions will be required to ensure that these cooperative opportunities are channeled into programs that align with Aceh’s development needs. []