Minister of Investment/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Bahlil Lahadalia asks the Indonesian students pursuing higher education in Australia to contribute themselves for the development of downstream industry in their home country.

Addressing a public lecture at the University of Melbourne, Australia on Monday evening, May 13, 2024, Bahlil said the Indonesian government has been focusing on building domestic downstreaming through the development of an electric car battery industry.

He cited that the government's efforts have been met with opposition from European countries that disagree with the Indonesian government's policies.

"Indonesia needs strong leadership, courage, and policy consistency. There is no other way for us to become a developed country, other than downstreaming. We cannot use the old ways," Bahlil said.

Also present at the public lecture were Indonesian Consul General in Melbourne Kuncoro Waseso, Chairman of the Indonesian Students Association Australia (PPIA) - University of Melbourne Rio Fieris, and a number of Ministry of Investment/BKPM officials.

On the same occasion, the Investment minister invited the young generation to develop their entrepreneurship, while suggesting that by becoming entrepreneurs they can help create jobs, improve the economy, and ultimately advance the country.

"This country is calling your generation to become entrepreneurs. I am sure you will be the next generation to win the battle with other countries," Bahlil, who was an entrepreneur before being recruited for the cabinet post, said.

Axel, a University of Melbourne student who attended the public lecture, concurred with Bahlil’s statement.

"As children of the nation, we have gone far away from home to pursue higher education. We must return to build our nation. Perhaps, I will set up my own business in the future and help our nation,” he said.

The public lecture at the University of Melbourne was organized by the Indonesia Investment Promotion Centre (IIPC) Sydney, in collaboration with the Indonesian Consulate General in Melbourne and the PPIA University of Melbourne chapter.