The 10th and 12th Vice President of the Republic of Indonesia, Jusuf Kalla (JK), believes that creativity, the courage to take risks, and trust are important assets for the younger generation to face global economic challenges and at the same time encourage national economic growth.
At the Amartha Asia Grassroots Forum, JK said that changes in the current global economic landscape are marked by the increasing role of the state in economic activity.
However, economic growth still depends on the ability of the private sector and society to create investment and jobs.
"Now, the economy in Indonesia and the world is one that involves more of the state. People suggest that the government's role is greater than before," JK said in his statement.
According to him, the government and businesses need to work hand in hand to maintain balanced economic development. The government plays a role in creating policies that support the business climate. Meanwhile, the private sector is the primary driver of productive economic activity.
"The government only provides jobs to around four million people, while the ones who provide jobs to almost the entire population are entrepreneurs who create economic activities and investments," he said.
JK believes that efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship need to be continuously encouraged, including through the use of various government-provided financing facilities, such as the People's Business Credit (KUR). He believes that the primary capital for building a business is not solely funding, but also the ability to generate ideas and innovation.
"If you want to start a business, the first thing you need is innovation, creativity, and ideas. That's number one. Capital comes second," he said.
He also encouraged the younger generation to take advantage of technological developments, including artificial intelligence (AI), to increase productivity and create new business opportunities.
According to JK, mastery of technology is an important factor so that Indonesia does not only depend on natural resources as an economic pillar.
"Don't just rely on natural resources. We need to build our own technological capabilities. With will and courage, it can be done," he said.
In addition to creativity and innovation, JK emphasized the importance of maintaining trust in running a business. He believes trust is the primary foundation for businesses to gain support from the public and financial institutions.
"An entrepreneur's capital is trust. Once you don't have trust, people won't trust you," said JK.
He said the combination of creativity, technological mastery, risk-taking, and integrity would be crucial factors in strengthening the competitiveness of the younger generation while supporting Indonesia's economic growth amidst global uncertainty.
