BKPM Chief Says Services Sector Will Drive Indonesian Economy

Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Thomas Lembong believes the services sector will become the main driver of Indonesia’s economic growth. This is based on the large number of workers the sector can absorb. He noted that 8.5 percent to 9.5 percent of industries in Indonesia are dominated by services, such as construction services, financial services, accounting services, and administrative services. “I see from BPS statistics that economic growth is 5 percent per year. The fast sector is the services sector. 8.5 to 9.5 percent is almost entirely services. All are growing rapidly and also appear to be creating jobs with the highest wages,” he said in Jakarta on Thursday. With the widespread presence of the services sector in Indonesia, he is confident it can improve the quality of human resources in the country. Thomas therefore hopes that more countries will be interested in investing in Indonesia, so that the national economy can improve. “We often lose out in work ethic; other societies are more intense, perhaps our climate is too hot and humid. But we have a very pleasant, kind, and humble culture, and I predict this will win the hearts and friendship of many countries,” he explained. Nevertheless, the government and related institutions must formulate strategies and dare to take risks so that the Indonesian economy can grow positively. “Therefore, services are the engine of creativity, knowledge, and mentality that can create jobs,” he concluded.