"This is our last chance, now or never. We must seize this opportunity because our demographic bonus is happening now, and we need to make the most of it to achieve high and quality growth," he stated during a working meeting with the House of Representatives (DPR) here on Thursday.
The minister stressed that achieving sustained and high-quality growth is crucial. Without it, Indonesia risks stagnation and failing to progress.
One of the efforts to achieve growth is to break free from the list of countries experiencing the middle-income trap.
"We must not get trapped in the middle-income trap. If we get trapped, we might not be able to escape anymore," Pambudy said.
He also highlighted concerns regarding the quality of Indonesia’s human capital.
According to him, 180 million Indonesians suffer from malnutrition, one-third of young children experience stunting, and the country’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) scores remain subpar.
Additionally, tuberculosis cases in Indonesia have reached one million annually, with 100,000 TB-related deaths each year, while 50,000 babies are born with disabilities annually.
"These are the figures we have in our statistics. Perhaps these numbers are even worse than reported. So, let us work together to address these issues," Pambudy said.
He also expressed appreciation for the DPR’s support, emphasizing that solving these fundamental issues is a shared responsibility.
"This is our shared responsibility. I feel honored and grateful that the House leaders and members are committed to working together in addressing these pressing issues," he added.
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Translator: Alatas, Kenzu
Editor: Primayanti
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