“Digitalization is no longer an option — it’s a necessity for MSMEs to remain relevant and competitive,” Moraza said during the opening of the Public Accountant Office (KJA) Gathering in Surabaya, East Java, on Friday.
He emphasized that MSMEs must have adequate access to financial literacy, transparent and accountable business governance, and the capacity to leverage digital technology.
Citing national data, Moraza noted that Indonesia’s financial inclusion rate reached 85 percent in 2022. However, the financial literacy index remained at only 49 percent.
“This gap indicates a challenge that must be addressed — including by expanding MSMEs’ access to finance, coupled with stronger financial understanding,” he said.
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“While financial access is broadening, MSMEs cannot yet fully benefit from it without proper financial literacy,” Moraza added.
He highlighted that financial literacy and inclusion significantly influence business sustainability. With strong financial literacy, MSMEs can not only manage their operations more accountably but also more easily secure financing, expand market reach, and maintain long-term competitiveness.
In this context, Moraza stressed the strategic role of the Indonesian Institute of Accountants (IAI) and KJA.
He pointed to the IAI’s issuance of Financial Accounting Standards for MSME Entities as a critical foundation for credible business governance, which could increase trust from banks, investors, and business partners.
“The Ministry and IAI share a common vision — let’s work together to build resilient, modern, and globally competitive MSMEs,” he said.
Moraza called on the IAI and KJA to remain strategic partners in improving MSMEs’ financial literacy and advancing digital, technology-based bookkeeping practices.
He also encouraged both institutions to expand collaboration with financial institutions and other components of the business ecosystem.
These efforts, she added, align with Indonesia’s national development goals under the Asta Cita framework, particularly in creating productive employment, realizing an inclusive and just economy, and driving a digital-based economic transformation.
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Translator: Astrid, Azis Kurmala
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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