From November 1 to 3, Indonesia Week Hong Kong 2024 unfolded with a series of high-profile events aimed at fostering closer ties between Indonesia and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Organized by the Consulate General of Indonesia in the HKSAR, the event presented a unique opportunity to deepen collaboration across various sectors, enhancing economic and cultural exchanges.
Expanding Trade and Investment
In a recent interview, Indonesian Ambassador to China Djauhari Oratmangun highlighted the event’s primary goal of enhancing trade and investment with the HKSAR. As of September this year, trade between Indonesia and the HKSAR has reached $6 billion, solidifying the HKSAR as an important source of foreign investment for Indonesia.
“We are eager to strengthen our economic ties with the HKSAR,” Ambassador Oratmangun stated. “Expanding our trade and investment partnerships will bring mutual benefits and drive growth in both regions.”
Boosting Academic Exchanges
The event also focused on promoting academic exchanges. Indonesia aims to increase the number of Indonesian students studying in the HKSAR, with around 1,000 currently enrolled. Several universities in the HKSAR are offering scholarships to attract more students from Indonesia, fostering educational and cultural understanding.
Additionally, the Indonesian government’s recent reintroduction of a visa exemption policy for HKSAR passport holders allows for visa-free visits to Indonesia for up to 30 days. This policy is expected to further boost people-to-people exchanges and tourism.
Bridging Connections with the Chinese Mainland
Yul Edison, Consul General of Indonesia in the HKSAR, emphasized the importance of people-to-people connections as the cornerstone of further cooperation across various sectors in Indonesia and the Chinese mainland, including the HKSAR.
“Our strong relations with the Chinese mainland are crucial,” Edison noted. “We are committed to deepening our comprehensive strategic partnership, focusing on political security, economic development, and social culture.”
Trade between Indonesia and the Chinese mainland reached nearly $150 billion last year, reflecting robust economic ties and the potential for continued growth.
A Celebration of Indonesian Culture
Beyond seminars and forums, Indonesia Week Hong Kong 2024 featured a vibrant cultural showcase. A festive carnival held in Wan Chai invited attendees to experience the rich culture of Indonesia through a variety of activities.
Visitors sampled traditional Indonesian pastries, desserts, and snacks while enjoying 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 is one of the fastest-growing in the world and the largest among the 10 ASEAN countries. With expanding opportunities in sectors such as trade, finance, tourism, and food, Indonesia is poised for continued development. The growing collaboration with the HKSAR and the Chinese mainland signals a promising future for partnerships across industries.
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HKSAR holds Indonesia Week to foster trade, tourism, investment
cgtn.com
