Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Mari Elka Pangestu launched the Marketing Day, called Hamari by its local acronym, along with representatives from business associations across the country.
"It is hoped that Hamari will strengthen the activities of marketing and branding whose success will also involve various creative industrial elements such as advertising, design, film, photography, performing arts, music, television, radio and IT-based news media," she clarified in her speech.
She explained that the power of resources must be accompanied by marketing capability as well as branding in order to be able to compete in the international market.
She added that marketing and branding were key to success because to control the market, capability of creating products that meet the demand, desire and expectation of consumers are essentials.
"A product that meets market demand and moreover has a brand name will be valued more," she further explained.
The minister stated that the declaration of Hamari reflected the fact that Indonesia needs better branding and marketing strategy and orientation at company as well as state levels.
She pointed out that Hamari will become a reminder and motivator for business players in the country to keep creating and innovating.
"If business players in Indonesia are more creative and innovative, it is hoped that they will have competitive power to meet current open economic era," she explained.
Minister Mari reiterated that marketing will push a company to be more creative in creating remarkable brands that can increase competitiveness.
She remarked that Hamari is expected to boost the competence of original brands of Indonesia to against brands from other countries.
"A good brand from a country could be the pride of its people, improve the countrys reputation to gain more respect, attract investment and develop tourism," she commented.
Quoting Nielsens survey she added that the local brand have already started to compete with global brands.
Based on the results of surveys in a number of Asian countries, Indonesia has the highest rate of preference with its local brands being 58 percent higher than global brands, she pointed out.
On the occasion, Hamaris Board of Advisory Handi Irawan pointed out that Hamari will be the right moment for showcasing creativity and innovation.
"Through creative marketing activities and programs, it will create value to consumers," he explained.
He added that he hoped Hamari will encourage the public to love Indonesias local brands and products.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2014
