APEC must ensure that the benefits of trade and investment are enjoyed by everyone, and no economy is left behind.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that the empowerment of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and multilateral cooperation against cross-border crimes are key to achieving a resilient and sustainable Asia-Pacific.

During the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Friday local time, President Prabowo stressed that economic development must be inclusive for all.

"APEC must ensure that the benefits of trade and investment are enjoyed by everyone, and no economy is left behind. Our public-private collaboration must be oriented toward people-centered cooperation and economic growth," Prabowo stated, according to a statement received here.

The president said that Indonesia has taken concrete steps to empower MSMEs and cooperatives by improving their digital and financial access and integrating them into the global supply chain.

"In Indonesia, we implement these principles through national programs that empower small businesses and cooperatives to optimize their potential, improve prosperity, and contribute to a sustainable future," Prabowo remarked.

Meanwhile, the president stressed that threats posed by cross-border crimes such as human trafficking, drug abuse, money laundering, and smuggling could harm regional economic stability if not properly addressed.

He also highlighted that Indonesia’s efforts to combat corruption and exploitative business practices are aimed at maintaining positive economic growth trajectory.

"I believe that these experiences position Indonesia as a bridge between developed and developing economies in facing future challenges," Prabowo added.

Concluding his remarks, President Prabowo called on all APEC member economies to strengthen cooperation in the spirit of multilateralism to ensure that the organization remains relevant and beneficial to all people in the region.

This year’s APEC Summit is taking place in Gyeongju City, South Korea, from October 31 to November 1, 2025, with President Prabowo among the APEC economic leaders in attendance.

The president’s participation in the summit holds strategic significance, as the APEC bloc represents around 60 percent of the world’s gross domestic product and more than one-third of the global population.

The summit also serves as a vital platform for Indonesia to reinforce its role in advancing regional economic growth.



Related news: Prabowo welcomed by Lee Jae-myung at APEC Summit in South Korea

Translator: Fathur Rochman, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: M Razi Rahman
Copyright © ANTARA 2025