Indonesia Strengthens Economic Diplomacy Through PUIC Forum
Indonesia is preparing to welcome the 19th Conference of Parliaments of Member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (PUIC) on 12–15 May 2025 in Jakarta.
The forum, which presents parliaments of OIC member countries, is a strategic stage to strengthen economic diplomacy, governance, and solidarity between Islamic countries.
The Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Agency (BKSAP) of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Mardani Ali Sera, emphasized that the theme “Good Governance and Strong Institutions as Pillars of Resilience” reflects the need for OIC countries to strengthen institutions and governance.
“We want to spread the word that we are not only friendly hosts, but also provide souvenirs in the form of good governance practices. So that when we meet again, OIC countries have made more progress,” he said.
Mardani said that the majority of OIC countries are still in the developing category, so it is important to build strong institutions. Indonesia also invited the Prime Ministers of Malaysia and Singapore to share their experiences of development based on good governance.
He added that the Palestinian issue remains a priority.
“Palestine is always in our hearts. All participants will wear scarves with the Palestinian flag motif at the opening, as a symbol of solidarity,” he said.
Mardani also revealed that PUIC has thematic committees such as women, youth, and sustainable development to expand cross-sector cooperation.
In strengthening bilateral relations, Mardani welcomed the presence of 16 Algerian delegates, who were said to be very enthusiastic about establishing cooperation with Indonesia.
Deputy Chairman of the BKSAP DPR RI, Muhammad Husein Fadlulloh, emphasized the economic dimension of this forum.
“Indonesia wants to strengthen economic cooperation, especially in the halal product sector. With the largest Muslim population, we have the potential to become a leader in the halal industry in the food and fashion sectors,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of building new markets between OIC countries to face the global crisis.
“Social and humanitarian issues such as women’s and children’s rights were also discussed, especially in the context of Palestine. We support a fair solution for Palestine, with a focus on human rights,” continued Husein.
He added that Indonesia has shown its commitment to women’s representation in parliament, which now stands at 22%.
“We continue to strive to increase women’s participation in decision-making,” he said.
With a target of 500-600 participants from 54 countries and observers, the 19th PUIC is expected to be proof of Indonesia’s commitment to advancing economic, political, and humanitarian cooperation in the Islamic world.
