"ASEAN's main strength is not only in its resources, but also in our resilience as an association of countries that are solid and grow by complementing each other, or we call it a complementary economy," said Arsjad Rasjid, chair of ASEAN-BAC.
This year's ASEAN-BAC is being chaired by Indonesia as part of the country's chairmanship of the regional bloc, with the vision of strengthening connectivity between countries in the Southeast Asian region through the role of business or private groups.
During the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit 2023 at the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, Rasjid said that the complementary economy concept has also been promoted through a series of roadshows held by the council throughout Indonesia's chairmanship.
Since January this year, ASEAN-BAC has introduced several innovative regional economic reforms driven by ASEAN businesses.
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The roadshow series, which was organized in all ASEAN countries, aimed to develop an understanding among business players and find solutions.
Rasjid said that ASEAN-BAC has compiled eight legacy programs that will contribute significantly to ASEAN economic integration.
The eight programs include those to advance micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), improve digital connectivity and infrastructure, develop carbon market potential, and build resilient food and health systems.
Rasjid said that he has seen the optimism of ASEAN business players regarding the huge potential for trade and investment within the region.
He also submitted the ASEAN Business Road Map Toward a Center of Growth document, which is expected to serve as the key to fostering collaboration between the government and businesses in the Southeast Asian region.
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Translator: Ade J, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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