President Jokowi Mulls Appointing Ministers Overseeing Investment, Exports

President Jokowi accompanied by a number of officials officiates National Coordination Meeting on Investment, at Nusantara ICE BSD Hall, Tangerang Regency, Tuesday (12/3). (Photo: Jay/PR)

In response to Indonesia’s sluggish investment growth and exports, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo considers the possibility of appointing two ministers in charge of investment and export.

The President cited an example of several European countries that have investment and export ministers.

“I stated a week ago in a cabinet meeting regarding the possible appointment of ministers in charge of investment and export,” the President said in his directives at the National Coordination Meeting on Investment, at Nusantara Hall ICE BSD, Tangerang Regency, Tuesday (12/3).

“What baffles me is that we are aware of our mistakes, shortcomings, and the solutions to those problems; yet, we cannot resolve them,” he added.

On that occasion, the President also raised several issues pertaining to delays in the issuance of One Stop Service (PTSP), Business License (SIUP), Building Permit (IMB). “I found that it took six to eight months to issue the permits be it at the regional and central levels,” said the President.

Indonesia, according to the President, should be able to seize investment opportunities following the ongoing trade war between China and the United States that prompts investors to seek to find a new investment destination.

To that end, the President also called on ambassadors, the Indonesian Trade Promotion Center (ITPC), and the Indonesian Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) to play their roles to seize the opportunity. The President also asserted that Indonesia has raw materials such as rattan and bamboo; thus, the country can take over China’s wood products industry. Nevertheless, he added, Indonesia is still behind Vietnam.

“We lost the race. We still have to boost investment and dominate the market. This is our responsibility to secure the market,” said the President. (DND/JAY/ES)

Translated by: Muhardi

Edited by: M. Ersan Pamungkas