Minister Of Transportation Invites Asia Pacific Countries To Increase Digital-Based Regional Connectivity

Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi (Photo: between)

Minister of Transportation Budi Karya Sumadi invites countries in the Asia Pacific region to increase the application of digital-based regional connectivity. This includes prioritizing the integration of various modes.

This was conveyed by Budi while attending a series of events on the first day of the implementation of the Asia Pacific Smart Transportation System Forum or The 19th Intelligent Transport System (ITS) Asia Pacific Forum, at the Jakarta Convention Center, Tuesday, May 28.

The Minister of Transportation said, according to the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), the Asia Pacific region leads a smart transportation system with an annual growth rate projection of 17.8 percent.

However, he continued, there are still challenges, especially for underdeveloped and developing countries. For this reason, High Level Roundtable emphasizes the role of the government, the private sector, and financial institutions in supporting infrastructure development.

This meeting resulted in several important ideas that deserve mutual attention and action. These include encouraging regional connectivity in the era of digital-based transportation, encouraging the development of inclusive land transportation facilities and infrastructure, and prioritizing the integration of various modes," he said.

On this occasion, Budi together with the Minister of Transportation from Singapore, Pakistan, Cambodia and representatives from Great Britain, Japan, Laos, Australia, as well as Vietnam discussed and shared practices and experiences on an intelligent and sustainable transportation system.

We also welcome new solutions and initiatives at the global, regional and national levels to accelerate progress. Then put forward partnerships and commitments to improve and accelerate the implementation of smart transportation systems, improve regulatory frameworks, focus on strengthening human resource performance, and continuing to share the best knowledge, experience, and practices," he said.

The next agenda attended by the Minister of Transportation was an audience with Secretary General of the International Transport Forum (ITF) Young Tae Kim. For information, ITF is an intergovernmental organization that is a strategic forum for stakeholders in the field of transportation development.

The scope of issues that ITF pays attention to include accessibility, aviation, environment, globalization, infrastructure, sea transportation, railways, road transportation and safety, as well as transportation and urban transportation security.

At the hearing, the Minister of Transportation expressed Indonesia's interest in being concretely involved in ITF. Furthermore, discuss strategies to strengthen partnerships between the Ministry of Transportation and ITF, as well as identify priority areas and deepen collaborative efforts that can be carried out.

"Indonesia's transportation sector is undergoing a transformation due to urbanization and economic growth. We prioritize smooth and resilient transportation connectivity," said the Minister of Transportation.