Indonesia stands at the forefront as it hosts the 57th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Small and Medium Enterprises Working Group (APEC SMEWG) forum in the picturesque setting of Nusa Dua, Bali, spanning two pivotal days on April 24-25, 2024.
“The forum is very strategic for discussing the development and current issues related to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region,” remarked Arif Rahman Hakim, Secretary of the Ministry of Cooperatives and SMEs, in Jakarta on Thursday, quoted from Antaranews.
The forum, a gathering of minds from across APEC member nations, converges to delve deep into the intricacies of SME development, addressing pressing issues and forging pathways for growth in the dynamic landscape of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises within the Asia-Pacific region.
With representatives hailing from 21 APEC member countries and regions, including Indonesia, Australia, Canada, China, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Russia, the United States, and more, the forum promises a diverse array of perspectives and insights.
“The event not only positions Indonesia as the host but also as an incubator of ideas, serving as a platform for the exchange of ideas, insights, and best practices to enhance the competitiveness of Indonesian SME products,” added Arif in his statement.
Minister of Cooperatives and SMEs, Teten Masduki, assumes the mantle to officially inaugurate the event, setting the tone for constructive dialogue and collaborative efforts aimed at fostering innovation and resilience within the SME ecosystem.
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Beyond its role as a gracious host, Indonesia embraces its position as a hub for ideation, fostering an environment conducive to the exchange of innovative concepts, best practices, and strategic initiatives geared towards enhancing SME competitiveness.
Parallel to the SMEWG forum, a pivotal policy dialogue titled “Financial Inclusion for SMEs: Understanding the Importance of Digital Financial Literacy” is slated for April 23, 2024. This dialogue seeks to craft actionable policy recommendations aimed at bolstering SMEs’ capacity to navigate the complexities of digital financial systems.
Arif Rahman Hakim underscores the forum’s significance in ensuring Indonesia’s SME development strategies remain aligned with the overarching objectives outlined by the SMEWG for the strategic period spanning 2021-2024.
At the heart of the dialogue lies a shared commitment to fortifying inclusive capabilities, driving digital transformation, and facilitating access to financial resources, thereby empowering SMEs to thrive amidst evolving economic paradigms.
Crucially, the dialogue serves as a rallying call for policymakers to rally behind initiatives aimed at investing in SME capacity-building programs and technical training, underwritten by APEC, to catalyze sustainable growth and resilience across the SME spectrum.
Beyond the confines of formal deliberations, APEC delegates are afforded a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant tapestry of local SME initiatives. From exploring the innovative offerings at the Krisna souvenir center to partaking in the cultural splendor of Bali through traditional performances like the Kecak dance in Uluwatu, the forum promises a rich tapestry of experiences emblematic of Indonesia’s unwavering commitment to SME empowerment and economic progress.
