By: Ricky Rinaldi
The national economy is not only supported by macro indicators such as economic growth, inflation, or investment, but also by the strength of the real sector, which directly impacts people’s lives. The agriculture, fisheries, trade, manufacturing, and micro and small businesses sectors are the main foundations of the people’s economy, absorbing a large workforce. Therefore, accelerating various real sector programs is a crucial step in strengthening economic resilience and improving public welfare.
Amidst the uncertain dynamics of the global economy, strengthening the real sector is an increasingly relevant strategy. While external pressures impact financial markets and international trade, economic activity based on domestic needs can act as a buffer for national growth. Therefore, policies that encourage real sector productivity play a strategic role in maintaining economic stability.
President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, emphasized that economic development must provide tangible benefits to the wider community. Quality economic growth is measured not only by statistics, but also by its ability to create jobs, increase public income, and strengthen the people’s economic resilience. Within this framework, accelerating real sector programs is a crucial part of the national development agenda.
Strengthening the real sector is carried out through various policies that support increased production and productivity. The government is striving to expand access to financing, strengthen supporting infrastructure, and increase the efficiency of the distribution of goods and services. These steps aim to create a healthier economic ecosystem so that businesses can develop sustainably.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto emphasized that the real sector plays a significant role in maintaining the momentum of economic growth. According to him, strengthening domestic production and consumption activities is a crucial factor in facing global economic challenges. With appropriate policy support, the real sector can become a key driver of more inclusive growth.
One crucial aspect of accelerating the real sector is strengthening micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This business group plays a significant role in creating jobs and maintaining economic activity at the local level. Supporting MSMEs through access to financing, digitalization, and business mentoring will strengthen their ability to grow and compete.
In addition to MSMEs, the agricultural sector is also a crucial pillar of the people’s economy. Increasing agricultural productivity not only impacts farmers’ welfare but also contributes to the stability of the national food supply. With technological support, broader market access, and adequate infrastructure, the agricultural sector can provide greater added value to the community.
The acceleration of real sector programs is also evident through the strengthening of industrial downstreaming. This policy aims to increase the added value of domestic products so that economic benefits extend beyond raw material production. Downstreaming opens investment opportunities, creates new jobs, and strengthens the competitiveness of national products in the global market.
On the other hand, infrastructure development also has a direct impact on the real sector. Good infrastructure helps streamline the distribution of goods, lowers logistics costs, and improves connectivity between regions. With a more efficient distribution system, businesses can increase productivity and expand market reach.
Technological development is also a crucial factor in accelerating the growth of the real sector. Digitalization opens new opportunities for businesses to reach a wider range of consumers and improve operational efficiency. The use of technology helps strengthen business competitiveness while encouraging a more modern economic transformation.
In the context of national economic resilience, the real sector plays a key role as a buffer against external pressures. Strong domestic production and consumption activities will help maintain economic stability despite global challenges. Therefore, strengthening the real sector not only impacts growth but also overall economic resilience.
Successfully accelerating real sector programs also requires synergy between the central government, regional governments, the business community, and the community. Strong collaboration will expedite policy implementation and ensure its benefits are felt more widely. An integrated approach is key to creating sustainable economic growth.
In addition to increasing public income, a strong real sector also contributes