Political and Economic Analysis
Indonesian President Jokowi Celebrates Completion of 161 National Strategic Projects and Promotes Economic Growth
Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) celebrated a significant milestone, revealing the successful completion of 161 National Strategic Projects (PSN) over the past decade, creating jobs for 11 million workers. This announcement was made during the National Strategic Projects Decade Celebration in Jakarta on August 13, 2023. These PSN initiatives have not only provided employment but also elevated Indonesia's global competitiveness. The IMD World Competitiveness Index witnessed Indonesia's rise from 44th to 34th place in 2022, largely attributed to these infrastructure developments. President Jokowi emphasized the need to expedite the remaining PSN projects, setting a deadline of the first semester of 2024. He stressed rigorous monitoring to ensure these projects avoid delays and setbacks, urging his administration to identify and address issues promptly. Innovation was encouraged in tackling challenges related to PSN development, with a stern reminder not to adopt repressive measures against the public. The primary goal of PSN, Jokowi reiterated, is to benefit the people rather than burden them.
Accompanying the President were key figures, including Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of Agrarian and Spatial Planning Hadi Tjahjanto, State Secretary Pratikno, and Arsjad Rasjid, Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin). Kadin's involvement underscored the commitment of the business community to PSN's success and economic growth, aiming to achieve Indonesia's ambitious goals for 2045. Arsjad Rasjid emphasized that infrastructure forms the backbone of economic development, contributing significantly to Indonesia's impressive 5% average annual growth rate over the past five years, even in a global economic slowdown. Arsjad highlighted the shared responsibility of the government and business community in PSN's success, calling for increased synergy and collaboration. Through government-business partnerships and investment schemes, Kadin stands ready to support the government in expediting PSN projects and realizing Indonesia's vision for 2045. The event served as a platform for creating tangible cooperation between the government, investors, and businesses to accelerate infrastructure development in Indonesia.
