Indonesia Week Hong Kong 2024 took place from November 1 to 3, featuring a series of high-profile events aimed at strengthening ties between Indonesia and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
Organized by the Consulate General of Indonesia in the HKSAR, the event highlighted opportunities for deeper collaboration, focusing on cross-sector partnerships to enhance economic and cultural exchanges.
In his keynote address, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee emphasized the government's commitment to bolstering relations with Indonesia and other Southeast Asian nations. \"I am pleased to say that expanding relations with Indonesia and the countries of Southeast Asia is a priority of the HKSAR government,\" Lee stated, referencing his recent policy agenda that prioritizes initiatives benefiting both Indonesian communities and the broader ASEAN region.
Expanding Trade and Investment
Indonesian Ambassador to China Djauhari Oratmangun highlighted that enhancing trade and investment with the HKSAR was a primary goal of the event. As of September this year, trade between Indonesia and the HKSAR reached $6 billion, with the region serving as a significant source of foreign investment for Indonesia.
The event also aimed to promote academic exchanges, with Indonesia looking to increase the number of students studying in the HKSAR. Currently, around 1,000 Indonesian students are enrolled, and several HKSAR universities are offering scholarships to attract more.
Additionally, the Indonesian government has reintroduced a visa exemption policy for HKSAR passport holders, allowing visa-free visits to Indonesia for up to 30 days. This initiative is expected to further enhance people-to-people exchanges.
Bridging Connections with Chinese Mainland
Yul Edison, Consul General of Indonesia in the HKSAR, emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections as the foundation for further cooperation across various sectors between Indonesia and China, including the HKSAR.
Edison noted that trade and investment between Indonesia and China reached nearly $150 billion last year, and reiterated Indonesia's commitment to maintaining strong relations with the Chinese mainland. Focusing on political security, economic development, and social culture, he expressed a desire to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership with China.
A Celebration of Indonesian Culture
Indonesia Week Hong Kong 2024 also featured a vibrant cultural showcase, including a festive carnival in Wan Chai. Attendees enjoyed traditional Indonesian pastries, desserts, and snacks, along with ethnic fashion shows, pop music performances, and the lively sounds of Dangdut music. The event provided a festive atmosphere, offering both locals and tourists a taste of Southeast Asian hospitality.
Indonesia's economy, one of the fastest-growing in the world and the largest among the ASEAN countries, presents expanding opportunities in trade, finance, tourism, and food sectors. As Indonesia explores new avenues of cooperation with China, stakeholders remain optimistic about the growing potential for collaboration across industries.
Reference(s):
HKSAR holds Indonesia Week to foster trade, tourism, investment
cgtn.com
