Jakarta. The Indonesian Employers' Association (Apindo) eagerly awaits the implementation of proposed policies by each presidential and vice-presidential candidate in the 2024 presidential election.

Apindo Chairwoman Shinta Widjaja Kamdani said each candidate will have a chance to present a comprehensive vision and mission related to the economy during the vice-presidential debate.

Viewers can catch the vice-presidential debate on BTV, scheduled for December 22, 2023, beginning at 4:15 PM WIB.

"Our primary focus is the dedication to actualizing their vision. Moreover, their understanding of on-field conditions is pivotal. It's not solely about having a well-crafted vision but also ensuring its effective implementation. Bridging the gap between plans and the actual realities in the field has consistently been our priority," Shinta said during the Economic and Business Outlook event at Apindo in Jakarta on Thursday.

One of the main focuses of the vice-presidential candidates is the increase in employment through entrepreneurship. Shinta highlights three aspects Indonesian entrepreneurs need: market access, capital access, and capacity building. Apindo hopes that the candidates will take these three aspects seriously.

"Job creation through entrepreneurship is crucial. Ensuring entrepreneurs have access to markets, capital, and enhanced capacity is important. It goes beyond fiscal incentives; these three components are equally vital. The market serves as the linchpin for their business growth, emphasizing that funding alone, without sufficient market access, is not sustainable," Shinta explained.

Apindo fully supports the vision of presidential and vice-presidential candidates that focuses on increasing the number of entrepreneurs. With the current number of entrepreneurs in Indonesia standing at only 3% of the total population, Apindo sees entrepreneurship as a strategic solution for creating jobs and absorbing labor.

The upcoming debate will focus on economic issues ranging from the digital economy, finance, investment, tax policies, trade, state budget management, and infrastructure to urban development. 

Prabowo's running mate, the 36-year-old Gibran, with experience as Solo Mayor and entrepreneur, will get to speak first in the debate. Gibran will face politician Muhaimin Iskandar and Chief Security Affairs Minister Mahfud MD. Muhaimin is the running mate to Anies Baswedan, while Mahfud is the vice presidential candidate to Ganjar Pranowo.