James Riady Praises Prabowo's Leadership, Urges National AI Strategy

James Riady, Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), has described President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership as visionary, strategic, and courageous. During a meeting on 31 July 2026, Riady highlighted the importance of establishing a national strategy for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics to support Indonesia’s ‘Golden Indonesia 2045’ vision.

Riady noted that President Prabowo possesses a clear vision and the courage to launch simultaneous policy breakthroughs, including food self-sufficiency, energy security, and industrial downstreaming. He observed that despite global pressures, the stability of subsidised electricity prices and 3kg LPG prices indicates a predictable business environment, which is crucial for investors.

Regarding the business landscape, Riady expressed the business community’s confidence in the government’s transformation programmes. He highlighted Indonesia’s potential as a future technology market and noted that despite global volatility, there remains strong demand in the retail sector.

In a move reflecting corporate operational efficiency, Riady also confirmed that all fences in Lippo malls, which had been in place for the last decade, have been removed. This policy aims to increase the openness of shopping spaces, reduce maintenance costs, and align with consumer trends prioritising easy access, thereby attracting more tenants amidst a national shortage of available retail space.

Furthermore, Riady urged the government to ensure Indonesia does not merely become a market for global technology but instead becomes a creator of innovation, talent, and new industries through a robust AI and robotics strategy. He asserted that national readiness in AI will strengthen domestic industrial competitiveness and attract high-tech investment, creating new opportunities for the private sector to expand employment and strengthen regional economic foundations.