Heaptalk, Tokyo – Indonesia’s President Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo voiced to encourage the strengthening collaboration between ASEAN and Japan to face a transformation of industrial revolution 5.0. His statement was delivered during his visit in the 50th Years Summit Celebration of Friendly Relations and Cooperation between ASEAN and Japan in The Okura Hotel, Tokyo, Japan, on Sunday (17/12).
“For 50 years, ASEAN and Japan have both worked hand in hand in order to maintain the partnership as well as uniting the society through the scholarship program and youth cultural exchange. However, the upcoming challenges are becoming increasingly intricate,” Jokowi announced.
In his speech, Jokowi explained some key factors to boost the collaboration between ASEAN and Japan, one of which is improving talents’ quality through education and research development collaboration according to international priorities.
“Young people’s business network and startups should be reinforced and prepared to accelerate the digital economic development and strategic industry such as manufacturers and semiconductors,” he uttered.
Furthermore, the President of Republic Indonesia also put a consideration to the citizen’s mobility. He mentioned that society’s mobility must be improved through language training assistance to mutual recognition for skills and academics.
“In 2030, the ASEAN workforce is forecasted to reach 385 million people, this could be used to fill the need of manpower, both skillful and professional in Japan,” he added.
Additionally, Jokowi concluded that the collaboration in the tourist and technology sectors needs to be enhanced to support the economic growth in the area.
“Tourist and technology innovation sectors also needed to be refined to support mutual understanding and economic growth,” he said.
President Jokowi also stated that Indonesia believes the relationship between ASEAN and Japan that has lasted across generations and from heart to heart can bridge the differences in a world that is now currently being divided. “The bridge to peace and prosperity for mankind. That’s what we are,” he commented.
Jokowi believes, this collaboration can improve the economy of ASEAN that has been increasingly advanced during the post Covid-19
“ASEAN has a solid foundation with its 4,5% economic growth which makes it hits the highest peak globally. I hope that with this collaboration, ASEAN’s economy could increase rapidly,” Jokowi concluded.
Translator: Prazna Alyfia Ghefira
