"The main aspect now is how to control COVID-19. Nobody knows what the future of our economy will be. What we have to do is to save people from COVID-19, so that the number of deaths does not increase," Indef's senior economist, Didik J. Rachbini, stated during an online discussion in Jakarta, Sunday.
Rachbini suggested that the government can take a cue from several countries, such as China, Germany, Vietnam, and South Korea, which were quite successful in controlling the spread of COVID-19.
The economist noted that for addressing the COVID-19 crisis, the government was also called upon to exercise greater caution in issuing public policies that did not create any confusion.
"Hence, there should be no playing with words in policies, as it is a signal of success or failure of a policy," he pointed out.
On the occasion, Rachbini also called on the government to endeavor to optimize the nation’s natural resources as a form of economic security.
"Investment from China, the United States, and Europe will definitely decrease since all countries will focus on fulfilling their domestic needs," he stated.
The economist pointed to Indonesia having an edge over other countries. Once the COVID-19 crisis is overcome, Indonesia, with its large populace, should optimally tap the domestic market.
"After the COVID-19 pandemic is overcome, the domestic market should be maximized for us. We should not leave it to foreigners. In this way, we can derive benefits," he noted.
He remarked that the maturity of economic growth in the long term depends on the number and quality of the population, technology, and natural resources.
"We all have it. Technology can be updated. Indonesia has the potential to advance beyond other countries," he added.
EDITED BY INE
