Balikpapan Mayor Urges Chamber of Commerce to Produce Concrete Economic Strategies

Balikpapan Mayor Rahmad Mas'ud has called on the local Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin) to move beyond organizational consolidation and create tangible plans to address the region's economic challenges. Speaking at Kadin's first leadership meeting on Monday, Mas'ud urged the organization to produce realistic, concrete decisions that meet the needs of Balikpapan's business community.

He highlighted the rapidly changing business landscape, emphasizing that entrepreneurs must adopt stronger strategies. This includes boosting business capacity, embracing technological advancements, and improving product standards and services to remain competitive. Mas'ud warned that local businesses must actively seize emerging economic opportunities rather than passively observing regional growth.

Mas'ud, himself a former businessman, underscored Kadin's crucial position in connecting government interests with business requirements. He expects the organization to facilitate communication and strengthen Balikpapan's business ecosystem. Kadin should also actively expand market access and business networks for its members, ensuring that growing business opportunities benefit a wider range of local economic actors.

Particular attention should be given to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), Mas'ud stated. Kadin is expected to help MSMEs increase their capacity, enabling them to grow and integrate into larger supply chains. He envisions Kadin as a strategic partner for the government and a supportive environment for businesses to flourish, promoting collaboration between large corporations and MSMEs to ensure economic development benefits the broader community.