Indonesia's Role in Realizing the Vision of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC)

Abstract

Indonesia, as one of the largest economies and population in Southeast Asia, plays a crucial role in realizing the vision of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) and the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC). The goal of the AEC is to establish a unified marketplace and manufacturing hub where goods, services, investments, and highly skilled workers can move freely, while the ASCC seeks to promote social development and cultural cooperation in the region. Indonesia has taken various measures to support the AEC, including implementing economic reforms to improve competitiveness, reducing barriers to trade and investment, and promoting regional integration through initiatives such as the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and the ASEAN Investment Area (AIA). Indonesia also plays an active role in ASEAN negotiations with other regional partners such as China, Japan, and South Korea to enhance economic cooperation. In terms of the ASCC, Indonesia has made efforts to promote social development and cultural cooperation in the region by prioritizing issues such as poverty reduction, healthcare, education, and disaster management. Indonesia has also established cultural exchange programs and participated in various ASEAN cultural events to promote understanding and cooperation among member states. Overall, Indonesia's active participation and support in realizing the vision of the AEC and the ASCC are essential to achieving regional economic integration and social development in Southeast Asia.