Jakarta – President Prabowo Subianto met with a delegation from the Japan-Indonesia Association (JAPINDA) and The Jakarta Japan Club (JJC) at the Presidential Palace in Central Jakarta. During this meeting, several ministers and entrepreneurs were also present to accompany Prabowo.
One of the entrepreneurs introduced was Andi Syamsudin Arsyad, also known as Haji Isam. Prabowo introduced Haji Isam as one of the prominent entrepreneurs from Kalimantan.
“There are Arsjad Rasjid and Anindya Bakrie from the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin Indonesia). Then, Andi Syamsudin Arsyad, a prominent entrepreneur from Kalimantan,” Prabowo said on Friday (December 6, 2024).
The ministers introduced by Prabowo included Minister of Industry Agus Gumiwang Kartasasmita, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, and Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) Erick Thohir.
In addition to his role as Minister of SOEs, Prabowo pointed out that Erick also serves as the Chairman of the All-Indonesian Football Association (PSSI). In a lighthearted tone, Prabowo joked that Erick’s position in PSSI now seemed more important.
“Minister of SOEs Erick Thohir, who is also the Chairman of PSSI. I think that’s a more important job, ha ha ha,” Prabowo joked.
During the meeting, Prabowo emphasized Indonesia’s position as a trading nation. He stated that Indonesia is open to all countries, races, and religions around the world.
“For years, even before Indonesia was established, our tradition has been to warmly welcome guests, including those from abroad. That’s our tradition, and it might even be in our DNA,” Prabowo explained.
The presence of Japanese investors was warmly welcomed by the Indonesian government. Prabowo expressed hope that Japan would be more involved in Indonesia’s development.
Prabowo also mentioned his role as President of Indonesia, which has been in office for just 47 days. However, he stated that he felt comfortable due to the good teamwork and was ready to serve the people.