| Azaraimy HH |
A PRODUCT exhibition showcasing Indonesian food, handicrafts and fashion accessories is currently being held at The Mall in Gadong, to mark the 71st Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.
The exhibition was officially opened yesterday by Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Apong.
Also present during the launch were other ambassadors and members of the diplomatic corps in Brunei, as well as senior government officers and invited guests from local industries.
In her welcoming speech, Indonesian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Nurul Qomar said the theme of the exhibition was suited to the Indonesian Government’s main goal of advancing industrial growth by developing a marine-based economy.
She also pointed out that the trade balance between Indonesia and Brunei Darussalam has a tendency to fluctuate, with trade surpluses for Brunei Darussalam.
“In 2015, bilateral trade balance reached US$262.2 million, with a trade surplus for Brunei in the amount of US$19.4 million,” she said.
“However, in 2016, until the month of May, the trade surplus is for Indonesia, with the amount of US$14 million.”
Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ali bin Haji Apong tours the exhibition with Indonesian Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Nurul Qomar. – PHOTOS: AZARAIMY HH
An Indonesian performance at the event.
The Indonesian Maritime Product Exhibition runs until September 5.
The Indonesian ambassador was quick to state that the numbers did not necessarily reflect the true potential of both countries.
“Therefore, we need to collaborate in finding ways to develop unchartered potentials for the benefit of both countries,” she said.
“Through participation in the exhibition organised by the Embassy of Indonesia in Brunei Darussalam, Indonesian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) have had the opportunity to widen their knowledge on how to fit in with the demands of the foreign market. Experience will enrich their ability to creatively adapt and enhance themselves to meet the various demands of foreign market. We believe that Brunei Darussalam is the best place to fulfil these goals.
“Besides promoting Indonesian products, this exhibition which is annually held in Brunei is to develop further cooperation with Brunei’s business communities. In this sense, I am urging the participating companies to see the bigger picture, not merely in terms of sales, but also on how to set up networks with Bruneian partners to serve a larger market, both regionally and beyond.
“On the other hand, I would also like to urge Bruneian companies to seek potential cooperation with the Indonesian partners. With those thoughts in mind, I would like to encourage both parties to work together in forming better understanding and better cooperation for the benefit of both sides.”
The highlight of the opening ceremony was a display of traditional dances and martial arts from Indonesia. Several marine-related businesses are participating in the exhibition, including SMEs from Jakarta, Bandung, Yogyakarta and Kudus.
The Indonesian Maritime Product Exhibition 2016 is currently taking place from 10am to 10pm at The Mall, Gadong, until September 5.
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