Jakarta, Oct. 2 -- Indonesia will build a new airport and seaport in Merauke, South Papua, to support national food security and self-sufficiency, Transport Minister Dudy Purwagandhi said on Wednesday.

Speaking after a parliamentary hearing in Jakarta, Dudy said the existing airport in Merauke could not be used due to its private ownership and unsuitable terrain, including swampy areas that hinder expansion.

"The current airport is privately owned, and the location has swamps.We'll build a new one with proper land conditions and a longer runway suitable for large cargo aircraft," he said.

The new airport will serve the Merauke food estate, a strategic zone aimed at boosting agricultural output.

Physical construction is expected to beg...