Jakarta. Central Statistics Agency (BPS) Head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti has elaborated key drivers behind the strong economic growth in the second quarter amid skepticisms from some analysts questioning the data’s accuracy.

Indonesia’s economy expanded by 5.12 percent year on year in the second quarter, its fastest pace in two years, according to BPS. The result exceeded all forecasts from economists and international research institutions.

BPS Head Amalia Adininggar Widyasanti said in an exclusive interview with Beritasatu TV that household consumption remains the backbone of the economy, contributing 54.25 percent to overall growth in the quarter. Household spending rose by nearly 5 percent from a year earlier.

She noted that purchasing power has remained resilient despite shifts in consumer habits.

“If we look deeper into household consumption, strong growth has been recorded in recreation, food and beverages -- especially dining out -- and transportation. All of these categories have grown by more than 6 percent,” Amalia said.

Investment was another key driver, with gross fixed capital formation expanding by almost 7 percent and accounting for 27.83 percent of GDP.

Exports also surged, rising 10.67 percent year on year and contributing 22.28 percent to GDP.

“Service exports accelerated due to a rise in international tourist arrivals, while goods exports saw robust growth, supported by crude palm oil and derivative products, which rose by 18.67 percent,” she said.

The manufacturing sector grew by 5.68 percent, contributing 18.67 percent to GDP. Amalia said this was consistent with Bank Indonesia’s assessment that the manufacturing industry is in expansion mode, with production volumes trending upward.

“BPS also conducted its own survey across special economic and industrial zones, which confirmed rising economic activity in the second quarter,” she added.

Other sectors also performed strongly, with accommodation and warehousing recording growth above 8 percent.

“Public transportation reaches its peak in the second quarter,” Amalia said.

The full interview will be aired by BTV at midday and 8 p.m. Jakarta time on Monday.