JK: Creativity and Trust are Key to Driving Economic Growth
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The 10th and 12th Vice President of Indonesia, Jusuf Kalla (JK), believes that creativity, the courage to take risks, and trust are vital assets for the younger generation to face global economic challenges and drive national economic growth.
Speaking at the Amartha Asia Grassroots Forum in Jakarta on Thursday, JK noted that the current global economic landscape is characterised by an increasing role of the state in economic activities. However, he maintained that economic growth remains dependent on the ability of the private sector and the community to generate investment and employment.
“Currently, the economy in Indonesia and the world is becoming one that involves a larger role for the state. It is suggested that the government’s role is greater than before,” JK stated.
According to him, the government and business actors must work in tandem to maintain a balance in economic development. The government’s role is to create policies that support the business climate, while the private sector serves as the primary driver of productive economic activity.
“The government only provides jobs for around four million people; it is actually the entrepreneurs who create economic activity and investment, providing employment for almost the entire population,” he said.
JK assessed that efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship must continue to be encouraged, including through the use of various financing facilities provided by the government, such as the People’s Business Credit (KUR). He noted that the primary capital for building a business is not merely funds, but the ability to present ideas and innovation.
“If you want to do business, the first capital is innovation, creativity, and ideas. That is number one. The second is capital,” he said.
He also encouraged the younger generation to utilise technological developments, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to increase productivity and create new business opportunities. According to JK, mastering technology is a crucial factor to ensure that Indonesia does not rely solely on natural resources to support its economy.
“Do not only depend on natural resources. We must build our own technological capabilities. With will and courage, this can be achieved,” he remarked.
In addition to creativity and innovation, JK emphasised the importance of maintaining trust in conducting business. He viewed trust as the fundamental foundation for entrepreneurs to gain support from both the public and financial institutions.
“An entrepreneur’s capital is trust. Once you lack trust, people will not believe in you,” said JK.
He concluded that the combination of creativity, technological mastery, risk-taking, and integrity will be vital factors in strengthening the competitiveness of the younger generation and supporting Indonesia’s economic growth amidst global uncertainty.