Tackling corruption and the high incremental costs of doing business are equally urgent, experts highlighted.
“There are many investments that run away from Indonesia because there’s no (legal) certainty (in) enforcement,” said Sulistyawan. “Also, the bureaucracy is very complicated, very difficult to deal with.”
Examples on the ground show what is possible when talent stays. Andanu Prasetyo once dreamt of becoming a barista in Australia, inspired by Melbourne’s cafe culture. In 2015, he opened Toko Kopi Tuku in Jakarta’s Cipete district instead.
From a single outlet, the brand has grown to more than 60 stores across Greater Jakarta and several cities, employing more than 1,000 people.
“After experiencing the scene firsthand, I realised what creates an atmosphere isn’t just delicious coffee or sophisticated machines,” said Andanu, 36. “What matters is a good ecosystem.”
Had he left Indonesia, those jobs would have gone with him.
Source: CNA
