Ambassador: UK-Indonesia Partnership to Boost Jobs and Economy

Jakarta (ANTARA) - British Ambassador to Indonesia Dominic Jermey has said the strategic partnership between Indonesia and the UK is directed at creating jobs and boosting economic growth in both countries. “We have already seen examples, such as the maritime partnership programme which will create hundreds, even more than a thousand, fishing vessels in Indonesian shipyards,” Jermey said on the sidelines of the King’s Birthday Party celebration in Jakarta on Wednesday evening. According to him, the cooperation not only strengthens the national shipbuilding industry but also supports the sustainability of Indonesia’s fisheries sector. He said the partnership supports food security, including the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme, whilst simultaneously creating jobs and delivering economic benefits for both Indonesia and the UK. Jermey made the remarks in response to a question about global economic conditions and their impact on Indonesia. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer agreed upon a New Indonesia-UK Strategic Partnership in January 2026 during Prabowo’s working visit to London. The agreement covers four main pillars: strengthening economic growth, cooperation on climate, energy and the environment, enhancing defence and security, and developing human resources and society. Within the partnership, the UK is also supporting Indonesia’s plan to build around 1,500 fishing vessels and improve fishing villages through investment and technology transfer. The British Embassy in Jakarta held the King’s Birthday Party celebration, themed “UK Celebrates Innovation and Five Years as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner”, on Wednesday evening.