JAKARTA, Sept 6 — Three Asean member countries in Kalimantan Island, namely Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei Darussalam, agreed to form the Borneo Economic Community (BEC) in order to stimulate green economic development in Nusantara Capital City, reported ANTARA News Agency.
"The (2nd Borneo Business Roundtable) addressed important topics, provided insight into Nusantara, Indonesia's visionary new capital, and envisioned the opportunities in this capital city for our neighbouring countries and business communities," said Asean Business Advisory Council (Asean-BAC) chairman Arsjad Rasjid.
Three Asean countries participated in the 2nd Borneo Business Roundtable in Jakarta on Tuesday (September 5) after the first meeting was successfully held in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, on April 28, 2023.
At the secondnd meeting in Jakarta, representatives of the three Asean countries officially endorsed the cooperation in establishing the Borneo Economic Community (BEC).
According to Rasjid on Wednesday, a joint task force, involving representatives of BEC will be formed to enhance collaboration in shaping Kalimantan as a dynamic island.
The collaborative task force also aims to make Kalimantan a green economy epicentre in Asean that is built on sustainable development goals to achieve community welfare and environmental preservation.
"As leaders, CEOs, and stakeholders, we must create an environment of inclusive growth and unlimited cooperation," he said.
Meanwhile, Brunei Darussalam Asean-BAC chair Haslina Taib said the BEC aims to serve as an inclusive and sustainable business association for companies in Kalimantan and professionals in emerging fields.
She added BEC is inclusive for all businesses, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and open to social enterprises and skilled individuals.
"We are committed to encouraging regional sustainability in Asean, addressing business challenges on the island of Kalimantan, and enhancing collaboration, both inside and outside Kalimantan," Haslina affirmed.
— Bernama
