SEAToday.com, Jakarta - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) inaugurated the Indonesia Islamic Financial Center operations at Menara Danareksa, Jalan Medan Merdeka Selatan, Central Jakarta, Tuesday (9/17).

“This area will provide good development for Indonesia, including in banking as well,” President Jokowi said when delivering a speech at the inauguration.

The President said that Indonesia has great potential in the development of sharia economy, given its 236 million Muslim population.

Therefore, the President said, the presence of the Indonesia Islamic Financial Center is expected to capture the opportunity of the market share, lest other countries take the opportunity.

“Do not let a large market, a large market, later take it from other countries,” he said.

In his statement, Jokowi revealed the need for an in-depth review of various aspects related to the Islamic economy, both nationally and globally.

He added that special attention should be given to the sharia industry ecosystem and support for various sectors such as Muslim fashion, halal commerce, halal food and beverage industry, and halal tourism.

President Jokowi also underlined the importance of a platform that supports the development of these sectors.

With an integrated approach, it is expected that the sharia economy can make a significant contribution to national economic growth in a sustainable manner, Jokowi added.