ASIATODAY.ID, LIMA – Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia Sugiono emphasized the importance of innovation and digitalization as economic drivers in the Asia Pacific region at the Ministerial Level Meeting of the APEC Economy (AMM) in Lima, Peru, Thursday, 14 November 2024.
In the session with the theme “Innovation and Digitalization to Promote Transition to the Formal and Global Economy”, Sugiono highlighted the urgency of bridging the digital gap which is still wide in this region.
“Asia Pacific, despite being the world’s leading digital economic center, is still faced with major challenges. More than 1.7 billion people do not have internet access, while nearly 70% of workers in middle and low-income countries lack basic digital skills. “This is both an opportunity and a responsibility for us to act,” stressed Sugiono, quoted from the MOFA broadcast, Friday, November 15 2024.
Furthermore, Sugiono explained that Indonesia sees equitable development of digital infrastructure as a fundamental step. Programs such as the Digital Village Initiative implemented in Indonesia have shown the importance of access to technology for rural communities and vulnerable groups.
According to Sugiono, this infrastructure must be balanced with skills training that allows each individual to take advantage of opportunities in the digital economy.
In the context of economic transformation, Indonesia also continues to encourage initiatives that support the transition from the informal to the formal sector. This includes expanding access to financing for micro and small businesses, entrepreneurship training, and social security for workers in the informal sector.
Minister Sugiono also emphasized the importance of empowering women in the digital economy. According to him, the gender gap must be addressed immediately to ensure women can fully participate in the digital sector. Gender responsive policies that Indonesia has implemented include affordable access to digital devices, skills training, and other inclusive strategies.
“Asia Pacific has great potential to become a major leader in the world’s digital economy. To achieve this, we must ensure that this digital transformation is inclusive, no one is left behind, and all parties can contribute,” he concluded.
During the meeting, APEC Economic Ministers reaffirmed their joint commitment to strengthening regional collaboration in the field of digitalization, encouraging sustainable economic growth, and ensuring the Asia Pacific region becomes a major anchor in the global economy. (AT Network)
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