President Urges Kadin to Create More Business Opportunities

Jakarta - President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has called on the members of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) to step up efforts to create more business opportunities in the country. The head of state made the statement during his opening speech at the Kadin national leadership meeting here on Tuesday. "I hope Kadin, in cooperation with the central and regional governments, will continue to create business opportunities in our beloved country," he said. Citing reports from international survey institutes, President Yudhoyono stated that Indonesias economic growth outlook was promising and bright. "A survey institute has reported that Indonesia currently has a 'consuming class' of 45 million people, but the figure would rise to 135 million by the year 2030. Therefore, it is a good time for the businessmen to create more business opportunities both at home and overseas," he explained. "It is also equally important to improve the quality of our human resources," the President added. In the company of Coordinating Minister for Economy Hatta Rajasa and Kadin Chairman Suryo Bambang Sulisto, the head of state struck a gong to mark the opening of the meeting. The meeting was aimed at increasing the role of the nation¿s business community in regional development. "The theme of the meeting is in line with President Yudhoyono's vision of `growth with equity," said Anindya N Bakrie, the chairman of the organizing committee. He stated that the meeting would be attended by some 1,000 Kadin officials, along with observers, from 33 provinces. "Among those participating in the meeting will be the economic minister, industry minister, trade minister, finance minister, state enterprises minister, home affairs minister, small and medium enterprises and cooperative minister, and tourism and creative economy minister," he added.(*)