Jakarta. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo inaugurated three airports in Indonesia's remote areas – including the northernmost Miangas Island in North Sulawesi – on Wednesday (19/10), reinforcing the government's commitment to create better connectivity between the country's furthermost regions.

The government spent $15.3 million on the construction of Miangas Airport, which boasts a 1,400 meter-long runway, enough for a twin-engine ATR-72 short-haul regional airline to land. The Ministry of Transportation plans to spend another $7.6 million for runway extensions in the future.

Jokowi also officially opened the passenger terminals for Tanjung Api Airport in Tojo Una-Una and Kasiguncu Airport in Poso, both in Central Sulawesi’s coastal areas.

“We will develop all regions in Indonesia, not merely Java and Sumatra islands,” Jokowi said.

Jokowi also said that the government plans to develop more roads in the future, as well as provide more facilities and services to those living in the outskirts and remote areas of the country.

Also in attendance were first lady, Iriana Joko Widodo, Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi, Presidential Chief of Staff Teten Masduki and North Sulawesi Governor Olly Dondokambey.