The authors’ views are their own and do not represent the official position of the Institute of Defence

www.rsis.edu.sg No.093– 11 November 2024 The authors’ views are their own and do not represent the official position of the Institute of Defence and Strategic Studies of the S. [...] Both candidates advocate economic development for the province, emphasising infrastructure and industrial growth while also acknowledging the untapped potential of the maritime sector in the context of substantial political support and regional opportunities. [...] This similarity speaks to the aspirations of the KEPRI electorate, who wish for their province to be prosperous through leaders who can leverage the region’s maritime and geographic advantages to foster economic growth. [...] The absence of maritime issues in the candidates' campaign platforms may be attributed to a perceived voters’ preference for manufacturing and industrial jobs instead of those in the maritime sector, despite the frequent mention of KEPRI’s maritime character by both candidates. [...] Yet, the lack of a serious debate over the potential of the maritime sector is a missed opportunity that could have significant long-term implications for the region's development.