WJM and Irwin Mitchell host Indonesian embassy event
Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie LLP (WJM) and Irwin Mitchell Scotland recently hosted a special Indonesian business outreach event in Glasgow.
The seminar, entitled ‘Gateway to Southeast Asia: Unlocking Indonesia’s Market Potential’, featured a host of distinguished speakers, including His Excellency Dr Desra Percaya, Indonesian ambassador to the UK and Ireland; and Professor Wendy Alexander, the Scottish Labour leader.
Mark Higgins, Irwin Mitchell Scotland and WJM chair, took to the stage as the event looked into the potential of UK-Indonesian business relations. As Southeast Asia’s largest economy, with a population of over 270 million, Indonesia stands out for its diverse industries and rapid economic growth.
Mr Higgins said: “Being able to host and help facilitate this event was an exciting opportunity as we seek to broaden our client base across our corporate, commercial and wealth management services.
“It is testament to the potential of our relationship and yet another example of our growth in the Scottish market.
“We hope that similarly fruitful partnerships are born out of the discussions in our building as UK and Indonesian business relations flourish.”
A panel of Siti Tiefryani Fahlyah, director of Indonesia Investment Promotion Centre London; Carol Harvey, export finance manager at UK Export Finance; Sarah Lau, head of ASEAN at Irwin Mitchell; Jon Hope, senior vice president at CodeBase and Professor Nuran Acur from the University of Glasgow, provided an introduction to Indonesia and discussed opportunities, as well as legal considerations.
HE Dr Desra Percaya, Indonesian ambassador to the UK and Ireland, said: “Being in the vibrant economic hub of Glasgow was the perfect setting to set the scene for our discussion on Indonesian-UK business relations, which are steadily advancing.
“The UK is one of the leading investors in Indonesia, with Scotland the fifth-largest trading partner among UK regions, but there is still room for improvement.
“Our economy is resilient, and in our 75th year of trade relations with the UK, it feels like a pivotal moment to forge new collaborations and strengthen our ties.
“Together we can harness our strengths and create a prosperous future.”
Professor Wendy Alexander, Scottish government trade and investment envoy for higher education, also commented: “Scotland is eager to build on good relations with Indonesia - the largest economy in Southeast Asia, and what will be become one of the most dynamic of the future emerging economies.
“With a strong domestic consumption base, it is an ideal place for investment. I hope that Scottish companies are inspired by the opportunities showcased. Scotland is a fantastic place to do business with. Our strengths are recognised internationally and an attractive place for inward looking companies to locate and expand.
“We hope we are well placed to be a partner for Indonesia’s future ambitions.”