President Jokowi Lifts Digital Economy at the KTT APEC

INDUSTRY.co.id - Da Nang- President Joko Widodo raised the issue of the digital economy in the first session of the 25th APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Vietnam on Saturday (11/11/2017)

"The government should take the right position in facilitating a not always smooth transformation while prioritizing inclusive, sustainable development and productive employment creation," the President said.

President Jokowi became the fifth speaker after Vietnamese President Tran Dai Quang as host, US President Donald Trump, Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Initiating the meeting, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde presented an overview of the current global economic and financial situation and predictions in the coming years.

The President stated that Indonesia has the potential to become the largest digital economy in Southeast Asia by 2020 as there are currently 132.7 million internet users and 92 million users of devices across the country.

The potential is believed President Jokowi can bring new opportunities for people who are not covered by previous business patterns and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Nevertheless, he urges all state leaders to remain vigilant in the face of the rapidly changing digital economy. According to the President of digital economy not only create "innovative growth" but also bring disruptive impact on the already established conditions.

But the move is not easy because it requires creative thinking and breakthroughs from policy makers to make policy not just "business as usual". Therefore, Indonesia encourages APEC to ensure digital economy runs in line with expectations.

"I encourage APEC to help ensure that digital economy is benefiting the people and increasing inclusiveness," the President added.

In addition, Indonesia also encourages APEC to immediately accelerate the realization of "Bogor Goals" so that the benefits of globalization can be felt by the people.

"The realization of 'Bogor Goals' which is in line with the development agenda must be accelerated," said President.

In general, APEC leaders see the world still face challenges with real impacts, such as terrorism and climate change.

While New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stated that economic growth must be profitable for the people, therefore economic and social inclusion is important.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau warns of the importance of attention to women and children.

"What also needs to get a place is attention to women and children," said PM Trudeau.

"There is a belief that APEC has the ability to continue to play an important role in the digital age," said Viet Nam President Tran Dai Quang as the closing discussion.

The 2016 APEC theme is "Creating New Dynamics, Building a Common Future" will focus on several issues, including sustainable economy, regional integration, strengthening the competitiveness of small and medium-sized micro enterprises, climate change agricultural funds. (Ant)