RI Continues To Develop Applied Technology

Jakarta, Oct 16 (Antara) - The Government of Indonesia continues to develop applied technology with the help of local resources in its efforts to make the populace self-sufficient and prosperous, a minister said. "The mastery of technology has always been a fundamental requirement for economic growth and people`s welfare," Coordinating Minister for People`s Welfare Agung Laksono said here on Wednesday. Laksono explained that current economic competitiveness levels were still relatively low. According to the World Economic Forum, Indonesia was ranked at number 46 out of 146 countries in 2011 on the competitiveness scale, while in 2012 it edged up to number 50. "It reflects that a lot of researches have been carried out but the outcomes have yet to be put into practice by those using the technology, including the common people," he said. In an effort to boost technological readiness and encourage further deployment of technology in industry and among the entrepreneurs, the research and development institute (Litbang) is encouraged to create appropriate products and technologies. "The development of applied technology is expected to help industries and entrepreneurs who can use it to improve the nation`s economic competitiveness," Laksono noted.