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According to Suharso, the transformation of digital connectivity has the potential to unlock and accelerate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across various sectors, including finance, education, and healthcare.

Representing Indonesia at the Side Event of the Economic and Social Council Financing for Development Forum 2024 themed "Seizing Innovative Financing Opportunities for Digital Connectivity and Capacity Building," Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas Suharso Monoarfa invited global cooperation regarding funding and investment opportunities in digital transformation. Indonesia has positioned digital connectivity transformation as key to achieving sustainable development and is ready to share experiences globally.

"Digital connectivity transformation has the potential to unlock and accelerate Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across various sectors, including finance, education, healthcare, and others," Minister Suharso clarified at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, United States, as quoted from the Bappenas website.

Indonesia has experienced a significant surge in digital economy, with its digital economy growing by 414 percent from 2017 to 2021. This growth is also marked by several trends, including the expansion of e-commerce, widespread use of digital payments, and developments in technologies such as blockchain and crypto assets.

Minister Suharso also highlighted Indonesia's efforts to continuously promote the implementation of innovative financing, such as public-private partnership schemes and blended finance, to address digital divides by emphasizing the importance of collaboration and innovative financing for digital connectivity.

Addressing representatives from Mexico, South Korea, Turkey, Australia, and United Nations member states, international organizations, private sector, philanthropy, and academia attending the forum, Minister Suharso urged all stakeholders to collaborate in leveraging innovative financing opportunities in Indonesia to drive transformation and achieve inclusive and sustainable digital connectivity. "We must build new financing platforms, explore the potential of innovative financing sources, target available funding in the most effective and needed ways, and finally advocate for strengthening the role of MDBs (Multilateral Development Banks) to participate in digital project development and financing structures," Minister Suharso concluded. (IN)