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November 15, 2024 | 04:30 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono underscored the importance of innovation and digitalization as the driving force of the economy in the Asia-Pacific region at the APEC Ministerial Meeting in Lima, Peru, on Thursday, November 14, 2024. He highlighted the urgency of bridging the significant digital divide in the region.
According to Sugiono, the Asia-Pacific region, despite being a leading global digital economic hub, still faces significant challenges. Over 1.7 billion people lack internet access, while nearly 70 percent of workers in middle- and low-income countries lack basic digital skills.
"This is both an opportunity and a responsibility for us to act," emphasized Sugiono.
Furthermore, Sugiono explained that Indonesia views equitable digital infrastructure development as a fundamental step. Programs such as the Digital Village Initiative implemented in Indonesia have shown the importance of technology access for rural communities and vulnerable groups. This infrastructure must be complemented with skill training that enables individuals to seize opportunities in the digital economy.
In the context of economic transformation, Indonesia also continues to promote initiatives supporting 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 informal sector workers.
Foreign Minister Sugiono also emphasized the importance of empowering women in the digital economy. Gender disparity issues must also be addressed promptly to ensure women can fully participate in the digital sector. Indonesia's gender-responsive policies include affordable access to digital devices, skills training, and other inclusive strategies.
"Asia-Pacific has great potential to become a leading player in the world's digital economy. To achieve this, we must ensure that this digital transformation is inclusive, leaving no one behind, and that all parties can contribute," he concluded, as quoted from the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Economic Ministers of APEC member countries reaffirmed their joint commitment to strengthen regional collaboration in digitalization, promote sustainable economic growth, and ensure the Asia-Pacific region becomes a key anchor in the global economy.
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