DHL launches RP17 billion service hub and gateway
INTERNATIONAL logistics company DHL Express, part of Deutsche Post’s DHL Group, on Monday launched a service centre and a gateway worth 17 billion rupiah (Bt45 million) to support its business operations in and out of Batam, Riau Islands in Indonesia.
DHL decided to expand its business in Batam given its potential as the third-largest city in Sumatra, well known as an industrial area, an emerging transport hub and part of the Indonesia-Malaysia-Singapore golden triangle.
“This new investment could improve our network in Indonesia that consists of gateways in Balikpapan, Batam, Denpasar, Jakarta, Medan and Surabaya,” said Sean Wall, executive vice president of network operations and aviation of DHL Express Asia-Pacific.
The new facility can handle 2.4 million kilograms of cargo and process up to 150,000 shipments per year.
About 26 people work in the 972-square-metre facility, with three certified employees for handling dangerous goods.
The company said the facility was launched at the right time because the government is considering whether to make Batam a special economic zone for companies involved in aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul.
“With the potential of Batam being opened as a special economic zone for the aviation industry, DHL’s investment will be able to support the growth of the aviation industry in Indonesia,” said Ahmad Mohamad, senior technical adviser of DHL Express Indonesia.
