Anindya Bakrie: Boosting Indonesia’s Economy Starts with Regions

VIVA – The Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Anindya Bakrie, emphasized that Indonesia’s economy will thrive if development starts at the regional level. Speaking during the Kadin Regional Coordination Meeting for Sulawesi held at Hotel Claro Makassar on Sunday, November 3, 2024, Anindya explained that Kadin's new committee is determined to foster economic growth nationally.

“In our committee, it’s clear that to drive the economy, we must start from the regions,” Anindya said during his keynote speech. He elaborated that the economic potential of a region lies in its ability to generate income and sustain local livelihoods. As such, he emphasized the importance of empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises as a starting point.

“To boost regional economies, micro, small, and medium enterprises must thrive first. This is an essential step that we cannot afford to overlook,” he added.

Anindya, often called Anin, also highlighted the challenges facing Indonesia’s economy, particularly the rising unemployment rate. According to data from the Central Bureau of Statistics, there are 56 million unemployed individuals in the country. He stressed that Kadin is committed to working alongside the government to tackle this issue.

“Of course, there are significant challenges. The unemployment rate is not small, with data from the Central Bureau of Statistics showing 56 million unemployed individuals. This figure is considerable, and we in Kadin must work hard to ensure employment opportunities grow rather than shrink,” he explained.

Anin also pointed out the recent concerns surrounding Sritex, a major textile company, where 20,000 to 50,000 workers are reportedly at risk of losing their jobs. “Issues like this need our collective attention,” he said.
Furthermore, Anin urged Kadin officials in Sulawesi to strengthen the organization by completing work programs, consolidating the committee, and reactivating dialogue with government partners.

“Let’s make November a productive month. I’ve spoken with several key figures here, and we need to complete three things: our work programs, filling committee roles, and reactivating dialogue with government partners,” he stated.

Anin emphasized that while engaging with government partners is a task for the central committee, regional Kadin officials must focus on preparing for the upcoming National Leadership Meeting. He encouraged them to gather input on how Kadin can better support Indonesia’s new government in achieving its development goals.

“This is not the time for big political debates within the organization. It’s time to focus on work. The National Leadership Meeting will be an opportunity to discuss and gather ideas on Kadin’s role in supporting the new government’s development agenda,” he explained.

Anin expressed his gratitude to Kadin Sulawesi for their unity and dedication. “Thank you to Kadin Sulawesi for your teamwork and commitment. Unity is crucial because, without it, we cannot engage with the government effectively. Let’s continue striving for the good of Indonesia. Go, Kadin! Go, Indonesia!” he concluded.

The Regional Coordination Meeting, held over three days from Saturday, November 2, to Monday, November 4, 2024, was attended by Kadin provincial leaders from across Sulawesi and their respective teams. It was officially opened by Anindya Bakrie himself.