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Banyuwangi – Strengthening the local economy is a top priority for business leaders under the East Java Regional Leadership Council (DPP) of the Indonesian Employers Association (Apindo) as they face increasing global challenges. Apindo believes that regional economic potential remains a vital foundation for national economic growth.

Chairman of East Java DPP Apindo, Eddy Widjanarko, urged members to actively support regional economic development. “Local economies hold tremendous potential. We hope all members collaborate with the government to create opportunities that attract investment into the regions,” said Eddy during the opening of the Provincial Coordination and Working Meeting (Rakerkonprov), themed “Strengthening Economic Foundations Through Local Advantages Amid Global Pressures,” held in Banyuwangi from May 20–22, 2025.

Over the past year, East Java Apindo has implemented numerous initiatives to align with government programs. Among them, the association has hosted the Apindo UMKM Merdeka (AUM) program twice.

“AUM aims to enhance the capacity, market access, and independence of MSMEs. This initiative reflects Apindo’s commitment to supporting the MSME sector, which serves as the backbone of both regional and national economies,” Eddy added.

Apindo has also launched the Apindo Training Center (ATC) and Indonesia Incorporated. The ATC serves as a bridge between businesses and the labor market by developing human resources tailored to industry demands.

Indonesia Incorporated, meanwhile, acts as a strategic framework to strengthen cross-sector collaboration and boost national economic competitiveness.

Banyuwangi is considered a prime example of a region with strong potential to drive economic progress. Known as the *City of Gandrung, it boasts a diverse industrial landscape—from agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, to livestock and manufacturing.

This diversity was a key reason behind selecting Banyuwangi as the host for the 2025 Rakerkonprov.

“This meeting in Banyuwangi is not only historic but also rooted in the potential it offers for strengthening both regional and national economies,” Eddy emphasized.

National Apindo Board Member for Organizational Affairs, Anthony Hilman, echoed the importance of the meeting’s theme. He noted that Indonesia’s economy is currently facing considerable challenges, yet remains full of untapped opportunities.

“Indonesia’s GDP growth in Q1 2025 slowed to 4.87 percent year-on-year, with a 0.89 percent quarter-on-quarter contraction. This is a challenge for all stakeholders,” he said.

Hilman also supported Eddy’s call for streamlined investment policies. “Easing investment procedures can accelerate economic growth through Apindo’s role,” he added.

East Java’s Head of the Industry and Trade Office, Iwan, commended Apindo’s efforts. He stated that the Rakerkonprov’s theme opens the door to faster economic development driven by regional empowerment.

Banyuwangi’s Head of the Investment and One-Stop Integrated Services Office (DPMPTSP), Partana, also backed the initiative.

“Banyuwangi is unique, with vast geographic potential. Its investment appeal is strong and worthy of development,” Partana said.

He revealed that Banyuwangi attracted IDR 3.54 trillion in investments in 2024, ranking 11th in East Java.

The working meeting also featured discussions on human resource development, including a partnership agreement with the University of Surabaya (Ubaya). The agreement provides opportunities for Apindo members to pursue higher education.

“We recognize the urgent need for education. That’s why we support this collaboration, offering Apindo members pathways to improve educational quality,” said Ubaya Vice-Rector I, Prof. Maria Goreti Marianti Purwanto.

During the two-day event in the Sunrise of Java region, Apindo members actively engaged in boosting the local economy. Activities included showcasing MSME products and visiting Sanggar Sapujagad in Kemiren Village, Glagah District.

This visit signified support for the local tourism industry and included donations to village tourism operators. Members also conducted manufacturing visits to two key companies.

The first was PT Suri Tani Pemuka, a leading fishery product manufacturer, followed by PT Lundin Industry Invest, a producer of maritime-based defense equipment. The Rakerkonprov concluded with a visit to Boom Marina, developed by Pelindo Property Indonesia (PPI).

Source: jatim.viva.co.id