Acting Governor Of DKI Invites Jakarta Residents To Support ASEAN 2023 For Economic Growth

Acting Governor of DKI Heru Budi Hartono/PHOTO: Diah Ayu-VOI

JAKARTA - The kick-Off of Indonesia's chairmanship in ASEAN in 2023 was officially opened by Indonesian President Joko Widodo by hitting traditional supporting instruments at the Hotel Indonesia (HI) roundabout, Central Jakarta, Sunday, January 29. The opening was witnessed by thousands of residents who visited the HI Roundabout area.

President Joko Widodo emphasized three important things in the election for Indonesia to become Chair of the 2023 ASEAN. First, ASEAN must remain relevant to the interests of the community, as well as the region and the world.

"Second, ASEAN must make a big contribution to stability and peace in the Indo-Pacific region. Third, ASEAN must be the epicenter of the growth economy," said President Joko Widodo, Sunday, January 29.

The three points are considered very important given the less conducive global conditions, erratic world dynamics, geopolitical influences, economic crises, food crises, and energy crises.

"We still have to be optimistic. The chairmanship of ASEAN must foster optimism," he said.

This Kick-Off activity is a collaboration between the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs which coincides with Motor Vehicle Free Day (HBKB) with the Nusantara Parade in the form of band marching, carnival costume parades, percussion music groups, and Jakarta people's art artists, such as Betawi dance groups and ondel-ondel players.

Meanwhile, Acting Governor of DKI Jakarta Heru Budi Hartono said that Jakarta's readiness to host an international event related to ASEAN's chairmanship. According to him, Jakarta is ready to support and succeed in this activity.

"We in Jakarta will consistently coordinate with the Central Government to compile and conceptualize events that will be intensified from May to December," said Acting Governor Heru, Sunday, January 29.

Not only that, Governor Heru also asked for public support to enliven the series of events that will end on December 31.

"We invite all Jakartans to be involved in the success of this international event. This is not only a representation of Indonesia in the eyes of the world, but also a potential for growth in driving the MSME economy in Jakarta," he said.