Improve ASEAN cooperation

In order to meet the swelling tide of globalization, free trade and openness regarding economic policies, all of which lead to intensified competition, efforts are needed to improve cooperation among ASEAN's member countries. Even more, a synergy of efforts between government and business; among businesses within ASEAN; and among ASEAN businesses and those outside the organization should be established.

Speaking in this context, the chairman of the ASEAN Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Aburizal Bakrie, suggested that ASEAN countries start practicing openness in matters of economic policy in order to facilitate cooperation. Aburizal pointed to the egoism that exists in private business and government circles in this region. This egoism, he said, should be discarded immediately because in matters of trade the question of nationality is no longer of interest to anyone. The important thing, according to Aburizal, is that anyone can take advantage of the potentials in this region.

One of the points on the ASEAN agenda is the establishment of an ASEAN Single Market. It seems impossible, however, to realize such a single market as long as egoism and self-interest continue to prevail among ASEAN's members. Advanced countries are turning their attention to this region. Indonesia is seen primarily as a country with an abundance of natural resources as well as a decent growth rate. Improved living standards in a large population make for a potential market for goods which those countries produce.

For us, the important thing of course is how to make the best use of the available potentials in order to improve people's well-being.

-- Bisnis Indonesia, Jakarta