Ambon, Maluku, Nov. 7 -- The Maluku provincial government has urged lawmakers to prioritize inter-island connectivity and community empowerment in the Archipelagic Regions Bill, now under draft by the Regional Representative Council (DPD).

Maluku Governor Hendrik Lewerissa said Friday that the bill must address the unique challenges faced by Indonesia's island provinces, where territories are separated by vast waters and public services are often hindered by high transportation and logistics costs.

"The bill should focus on sea, air, and digital connectivity to ensure that communities in small and outer islands have equal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities," he said.

Lewerissa stressed that development policies...