AHY: Ramadan Drives Consumer Spending and Local Economy

Bogor (ANTARA) — Coordinating Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Agus Harimurti Yudhoyono (AHY) believes the Ramadan period should be leveraged to sustain consumer purchasing power whilst driving local economic circulation.

“In addition, we certainly hope there will be economic impact. We know that parts of the community require continuous attention to maintain their purchasing power,” said AHY after delivering social assistance packages consisting of food staples to representatives from mosque welfare councils (DKM) from six sub-districts in Bogor City, Friday.

AHY stated that social compassion during Ramadan has not only humanitarian consequences, but also contributes to community economic activity.

According to him, maintaining consumer purchasing power will have a direct impact on the sustainability of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), particularly during the period of increased consumption leading up to Eid al-Fitr.

“At the same time, we can revitalise MSME operators. This is also part of the intention,” he said.

AHY added that Bogor City has economic potential based on tourism and creative services that can be continuously strengthened through city comfort and mobility efficiency.

According to him, Bogor’s creative economy potential can continue to develop because the city has many MSMEs and strategically located tourist attractions that are much sought after by the public.

“Bogor has always been a destination. It has long been renowned for its beauty, pleasant atmosphere, and fresh air. There is the Presidential Palace, the Bogor Botanical Gardens, and many other attractions for general tourism,” he said.

He believes city comfort and good traffic management will increase visitor interest and encourage shopping and service activities in the area.

Meanwhile, Bogor City Mayor Dedie A. Rachim said the city government continues to work to strengthen city management to support community economic activity.

“We continue to strive to strengthen city management to make it increasingly comfortable and support community activities and the economic sector,” said Dedie.

Furthermore, AHY hopes that synergy between central and regional government can continue to be strengthened to maintain local economic stability while accelerating overall economic growth, particularly during the Ramadan period and approaching Eid al-Fitr.