Indonesia is looking to redefine its relationship with Hong Kong, positioning itself as a strategic partner in high-growth sectors including the halal economy, green finance and tourism – beyond its traditional role as a source of domestic helpers, according to Consul General Yul Edison.
In an exclusive interview with The Standard, Edison highlighted Indonesia’s strong economic momentum, citing 5.03 percent GDP growth in 2024 – among one of the fastest within Asean members – as the country advances toward its Golden Generation 2045 vision to become a high-income nation.
With the world’s fourth-largest population and largest Muslim demographic, Indonesia boasts a youthful median age of 30.4 and a robust labor force of 152 million people.
Tourism between the two regions shows promising growth, with Hong Kong welcoming over 500,000 visitors from Indonesia and Malaysia in the first eight months of the year, representing a 10 percent year-on-year increase. Edison attributed this growth to Hong Kong’s improving Muslimfriendly environment, including enhanced halal dining options and prayer facilities, and they were drawn by theme parks and shopping experiences.
However, he noted that currently only one halal-certified Indonesian restaurant operates in Hong Kong, urging local authorities to streamline certification processes through collaboration with Indonesian halal institutions. He also highlighted his favorite dim sum restaurant at the Islamic Center Canteen in Wan Chai.
Indonesia offers a vibrant cultural scene, including traditional dance performances, above, and ecological attractions.
To further strengthen people-topeople ties, Edison encouraged Hong Kong travelers to explore Indonesia’s “10 Super Priority Destinations” beyond the usual Jakarta and Bali circuit, highlighting attractions like Lake Toba, the world’s largest volcanic crater lake, Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, and Lombok National Park, home to the Komodo dragon.
On the investment front, Hong Kong has emerged as Indonesia’s second-largest foreign investor, committing US$8.2 billion (HK$64 billion) last year. This substantial investment flow reflects the “China Plus One” strategy adopted by Hong Kong manufacturers diversifying their production bases. Edison emphasized Indonesia’s competitive advantages, including its skilled workforce, competitive wages and 25 developing special economic zones.
Indonesia’s abundant natural resources – including metals, energy, rubber, coffee and cocoa – enhances its appeal to foreign investors.
The Consul General also spotlighted emerging opportunities in green finance, particularly for carbon credit projects from Indonesia’s vast forests, while the country works toward its 2050 net-zero goal. Additionally, he invited investment in Indonesia’s new capital city Nusantara, currently under development on Borneo Island to replace Jakarta by 2045.
After the success of Indonesia Week Hong Kong 2024, which showcased Indonesian food, music and culture, the second edition is scheduled to take place in March 2026, further deepening people-to-people ties.
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Donnie Yen
