Indonesia Proposed Development of Digital Economy in Batam

INDUSTRY.co.id - Singapore- Indonesia proposes the development of the digital economy within the framework of bilateral cooperation with Singapore in Batam Island Riau Islands Province.

"Batam is an ideal location for the development of the digital economy," President Joko Widodo said during a press statement with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the Singapore Presidential Palace on Thursday (7/9/2017)

The two leaders delivered a joint statement after a bilateral meeting in the same place.

Bilateral meetings address various issues of investment and education, tourism, energy and the digital economy.

"We expect the development of the beliateral cooperation, as well as the development of the digital economy," he said.

According to Jokowi, the digital economy that combines technological advancements and talents today is an option that must be developed.

"Batam is an ideal location for the development of digital economic cooperation because of the close location and the available network is adequate," he said.

On the same occasion, President Jokowi also expressed Indonesia's support for Singapore's leadership for ASEAN in 2018.

"Indonesia supports Singapore next year to lead ASEAN," Jokowi said as quoted by Antara.

Meanwhile Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said that the country is the largest investor for Indonesia with a value of 9.2 billion US dollars in 2016. Singapore is also the origin of foreign tourists in Indonesia's largest.

Singapore also called on Indonesia's support to chair ASEAN in 2018.

PM Lee also wants stronger bilateral cooperation including investment and education, the digital economy and fostering regional economic growth and development in Indonesia.