SBY Emphasises High Economic Growth is No Longer the Sole Measure of Development Success

Jakarta, VIVA – The 6th President of Indonesia, Susilo Bambermang Yudhoyono (SBY), has warned that high economic growth is no longer a sufficient measure of development success, especially amidst increasing global uncertainty. SBY stated that the current challenge for developing nations is not merely chasing rapid economic growth, but rather building growth that is resilient, inclusive, and sustainable.

“Because growth alone is no longer enough. A country can record impressive economic growth but still face widening inequality, declining public trust, and social fragmentation,” SBY remarked during his speech at The 2026 Asia Grassroots Forum by Amartha in Jakarta on Thursday, 4 June 2026.

He further revealed that the challenges of modern development involve more than just driving economic expansion; they include strengthening societal resilience amidst geopolitical tensions, climate change, and rapid technological advancements. SBY also emphasised the importance of expanding economic participation and ensuring that the benefits of growth are distributed equitably across society. According to him, the empowerment of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) serves as a vital instrument for strengthening economic resilience and expanding inclusion.

Furthermore, SBY assessed that the Asian economic growth model needs to undergo a transformation. He noted that the region cannot continue to rely on low-cost labour, commodities, and domestic consumption as its primary growth engines. He argued that regional growth must be supported by increased productivity, entrepreneurship, innovation, digitalisation, and the enhancement of human resource quality.

“In the future, competitiveness will no longer depend solely on who can produce more cheaply. Competitiveness will depend on who can adapt quickly, continue to innovate, and invest in people,” he concluded.