PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - West Java Deputy Governor Erwan Setiawan emphasized that the progress of Bandung City as the capital of West Java Province must have a tangible impact on the welfare of its residents. Economic growth, infrastructure development, and improvements in the quality of public services must lead to greater job opportunities and an improved quality of life for residents.

This was conveyed by Erwan when giving a speech at the Plenary Meeting of the Bandung City DPRD in the context of the 216th Anniversary of Bandung City (HJKB) in the Plenary Meeting Room of the Bandung City DPRD, Friday (25/9/2026).

"This achievement shouldn't stop us. Instead, it serves as a reminder that development must be continuously monitored so that economic growth is truly felt in the form of jobs, increased incomes, improved public services, and a higher quality of life for the community," said Erwan.

He stated that several development indicators in West Java showed positive progress. West Java's economy grew 5.73 percent annually in the second quarter of 2026, exceeding the national economic growth of 5.29 percent. Meanwhile, the percentage of poor people in West Java in March 2026 was recorded at 6.54 percent, down from March 2025.

In terms of human development, West Java's Human Development Index (HDI) reached 75.90 in 2025. Employment conditions also showed improvement, with the Open Unemployment Rate (TPT) in May 2026 reaching 6.61 percent, down from 6.64 percent in February 2026.

At the Bandung City level, Erwan stated that the economy in 2025 is projected to grow by 5.29 percent, up from 4.99 percent the previous year. The city's Human Development Index (HDI) also reached 83.75 points, while the poverty rate in March 2025 was recorded at 3.78 percent.

Erwan also expressed his appreciation for the Bandung City Government's efforts through its labor-intensive program, which has employed around 4,100 workers from 2026 through August. He added that around 3,900 more people are being prepared for the next phase.

"This shows that development is directly related to community needs and job opportunities," he said.

Erwan also emphasized the importance of maintaining the spirit of "Solidarity in Harmony," which is the identity of this year's HJKB. According to him, Bandung's strength is not only built through buildings and infrastructure, but also through the ability of its diverse community to live together, cooperate, and respect each other.

"Bandung needs to become not only a developed city, but also a mature society. It needs not only a growing economy but also more opportunities. It needs not only physical development, but also a sense of security, comfort, and togetherness," he said.

To strengthen development, the West Java Provincial Government is ready to enhance synergy with the Bandung City Government and the Bandung City Council (DPRD). Erwan emphasized that the relationship between the province and city must be built as a unified development effort, as various issues, such as transportation, the environment, the economy, education, health, and employment, transcend administrative boundaries.

Therefore, coordination between the West Java Provincial Government, Bandung City Government, the Regional People's Representative Council (DPRD), universities, the business world, communities, and the public needs to be further strengthened. Erwan hopes that the 216th HJKB commemoration will not only serve as a moment to commemorate history but also as a starting point for shaping Bandung's future with development that increasingly meets the needs of the community.