In its transformation towards becoming a global city, Jakarta keeps improving in various aspects, including efforts to improve the economy on an international scale. Shopping centers have a vital role in supporting these efforts.

Jakarta Acting Governor, Heru Budi Hartono gave directions to the Indonesian Shopping Center Management Association (APPBI) DPD Jakarta to encourage Jakarta's economy to be capable of global scale. He stated it during the Regional Working Meeting for APPBI DPD Jakarta in the Pattern Room, Grha Ali Sadikin, Jakarta City Hall, Thursday (11/1).

"You all can synergize with MSMEs in making events that involve many Jakarta residents. Thus, the role of shopping centers is very vital in turning the wheels of the economy. There is a real reciprocal cycle," he expressed, in the Jakarta Government's press release.

In the meeting with the theme 'Jakarta Global City: Opportunities and Role of Shopping Centers in the Economy and Lifestyle', he also discussed sustainable development involving all parties and various sectors.

"Regarding global cities, actually all cities in the world are assessed. This is done to achieve the target of the top 50 global cities. What is assessed? There must be activity in the economic center and adequate transportation. However, when we build Jakarta we must also based on sustainability aspects," he explained.

He cited that one sector that can drive the economy is sports.

"Like last year, we made the Jakarta Half Marathon in synergy with BUMN. Hence, we shall make the Jakarta International Marathon. With this activity, hotels will be crowded (by marathon participants) and the economy will move. This is based on the idea that the economy runs for the needs and interests of Jakartans," he explained.

Then he also promoted that in developing the economy, there needs to be convenience starting from the licensing stage. Currently, the Investment Ministry/Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) has been implementing an electronically integrated business licensing system (Online Single Submission/OSS).

"Today I want to inform you that you can now do business through OSS. Through this system, people can apply for a Business Identification Number (NIB). With all these conveniences, hopefully, Jakarta's economy will grow and be able to achieve the target of being in the top 50 global cities," he added.

As for the information, the meeting was also attended by the City Secretary's Economy and Finance Assistant, Sri Haryati; Jakarta Industry, Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises Agency Head, Elisabeth Ratu Rante Allo; and Jakarta Investment and One-Stop Integrated Service Agency Head, Benny Agus Candra.