Jakarta (Antara Bali) - Bank Indonesia (BI) held a joint review with 28 regents and vice regents to explore new drivers of economic growth to reduce dependence on commodities whose exports continue to fall following the global economic slowdown.
While opening a seminar titled "Leadership Regional Economics for Leaders," Deputy Governor of BI Perry Warjiyo stated here on Wednesday that the central bank met the regents to study the dynamics of the global economy and the latest national and local conditions to further map out new alternatives to boost the economy.
"We are facing economic conditions wherein the commodity prices are declining, hence we need to diversify to find new sources of local economic independence, meet appropriate goals, and tap the potential," Perry remarked.
The three-day seminar was organized at the BI Institute in collaboration with the National Security Agency and the Association of District Government of Indonesia (APKASI).
Perry said the central bank and the government have mapped out new sources of economic growth that can be tapped by promoting the agriculture, plantation, tourism, industry, and services sectors.
He noted that the various sectors of the economy will be driven in accordance with the potential of each region. Once the area identifies the key sectors to be developed, it is expected to attract more private investment.
"During the three days, several policies are expected to be formulated to strengthen the economy," he said.
In addition to looking for new drivers of growth, the seminar will strengthen the regional inflation control program and help to promote welfare, such as by reducing poverty and increasing the employment rate in the regions.
Perry said in addition to the joint economic studies, the regional leaders will follow a program to raise national awareness on defense. The program aims to strengthen the sense of patriotism and nationalism among people in the regions.
"We must strengthen local leadership, raise national awareness, and enhance their networks," he emphasized.
Meanwhile, Secretary General of APKASI Nurdin Abdullah stated that the regents were keen to spawn adequate policies and strategies for the regional economy, such as inflation control and acceleration of infrastructure development.
Nurdin remarked that the cuts in budget transfers to the regions in the revised state budget 2017 also added to the challenge for the local governments to optimize any existing potential to improve the economy.
"The decision to cut the budget in the middle of the road is very tough, but it should be carried out," he added.(WDY)
