New world-class theme park takes off in Makassar

Andi Hajramurni and Endy M. Bayuni, The Jakarta Post, Makassar | Thu, 09/10/2009 12:59 PM

Residents of South Sulawesi and neighboring provinces in eastern Indonesia will now not need to travel far to enjoy an international-class theme park, they can just head to Makassar.

The Trans Studio, named after the Trans TV network and billed the world's largest indoor theme park, was officially opened Wednesday.

"People need leisure once they've fulfilled their basic tasks," Vice President Jusuf Kalla said at the opening ceremony.

The outgoing Vice President's business group is a part owner of the 2.7-hectare park, along with Jakarta-based media mogul Chairul Tanjung.

Kalla underlined the economic impact of the theme park, which employs 1,000 workers to run the facility.

The Rp 3 trillion (US$300 million) park will eventually have two hotels and a large mall. It already has the largest car park in Indonesia.

The owners expect to get two million visitors each year, drawing not only residents of Makassar, but also visitors from across Indonesia.

Trans Studio boasts 21 different features and rides, including the SpongeBob film in 4-D, and a locally produced musical opera show in its Trans City Theatre.

The theme park is a reflection of the growing affluence of the South Sulawesi community, thanks largely to its huge agriculture industry.

The inauguration was scheduled to take place at 9 a.m. on Sept. 9, 2009 - nine being considered a lucky number by many Indonesians.

The date also marked the 60th birthday of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who had earlier turned down an invitation to inaugurate the park.

"We wish you a happy birthday, Mr. President," Kalla said in his speech.

Kalla, who has said he plans to return to live in his hometown of Makassar after his term in office ends Oct. 20, joked that he wanted to help run the Trans Studio theme park.

"I asked Pak Chairul if I could be the head of the cleaning service."