Indonesia’s economic growth has been impressive in the past decade. Much of this growth can be attributed to the efforts of Bahlil Lahadalia, who currently serves as the Minister of the State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) and former head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM). In this article, we will explore Bahlil’s background, his role in the government, and his contributions to Indonesia’s economy.
Background
Bahlil Lahadalia was born on January 7, 1987, in Ambon, Maluku. He completed his bachelor’s degree in International Relations from Hasanuddin University, Makassar, and then pursued a Master of Management in Human Capital from the Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
Before entering politics, Bahlil worked as a businessman and entrepreneur. In 2013, he founded the PT Gema Grahasarana Tbk, a property development company, which went public in 2015. He was named Ernst & Young’s Indonesian Entrepreneur of the Year in 2015 and 2016.
Political Career
In 2018, Bahlil was appointed as the head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM), a government agency responsible for promoting and facilitating domestic and foreign investment in Indonesia. During his tenure at BKPM, Bahlil introduced various reforms to simplify investment procedures and improve the investment climate in Indonesia.
One of Bahlil’s significant achievements was the creation of the Online Single Submission (OSS) system, which integrates various government agencies’ licensing procedures into a single platform. The OSS system has significantly reduced the time and costs required for businesses to obtain licenses and permits in Indonesia, making it more attractive for foreign investors to invest in the country.
In late 2020, Bahlil was appointed as the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) by President Jokowi. In his new role, Bahlil oversees more than 100 state-owned enterprises, including major players such as PT Pertamina, PT Telkom Indonesia, and PT PLN.
Contributions to Indonesia’s Economy
Bahlil’s contributions to Indonesia’s economic growth are undeniable. During his tenure at BKPM, Indonesia’s foreign direct investment (FDI) increased by 14.6% in 2019 and 2.3% in 2020, despite the global economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under his leadership, BKPM received various awards and recognitions, including the Best Investment Promotion Agency (IPA) in Southeast Asia by the Site Selection Magazine in 2020.
As the Minister of BUMN, Bahlil has continued his efforts to drive Indonesia’s economic growth. One of his priorities is to increase the efficiency and competitiveness of state-owned enterprises. He has also emphasized the importance of digital transformation and innovation in driving Indonesia’s economic recovery and growth.
Conclusion
Bahlil Lahadalia’s journey from a businessman to a politician is an inspiring example of how individuals can make a difference in their country’s development. His contributions to Indonesia’s economy, particularly in promoting and facilitating foreign investment, have been significant. As the Minister of BUMN, Bahlil’s agenda of driving economic growth through innovation and digital transformation shows his commitment to creating a better future for Indonesia.
