The 23rd Forbes Global CEO Conference 2025 convened in Jakarta, Indonesia, on October 14–15, bringing together top global executives, investors, and policymakers.

The two-day event, hosted by Forbes Media, explored how world leaders are navigating rapid technological change, economic uncertainty, and sustainability imperatives in a transforming global economy.

Among the distinguished speakers were Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Fast Retailing CEO Tadashi Yanai, Marriott International CEO Anthony Capuano, and Grab cofounder Anthony Tan. The sessions reflected a shared optimism that innovation, strategic partnerships, and long-term resilience will shape the next chapter of global business.

Prabowo Subianto’s Vision: Driving Indonesia Toward 8% GDP Growth

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto projected confidence that the nation could achieve an annual GDP growth rate of 8%. Speaking with Steve Forbes, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Forbes Media, Prabowo said this goal would be supported by increased domestic spending, including a nationwide initiative to provide free, nutritious meals for schoolchildren and pregnant women.

“I think 8% is very achievable,” Prabowo stated. He emphasized that each dollar spent on the program could generate returns of $5 to $7. The government has allocated 335 trillion rupiah (approximately $20 billion) to the initiative, expected to feed 83 million students daily and create 1.5 million jobs.

Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, Minister of Investment and Downstream Industry, also announced plans to streamline Indonesia’s more than 1,000 state-owned enterprises to about 200, aiming to improve efficiency and spur growth. He noted that SOEs account for nearly half of Indonesia’s GDP, making reform essential to long-term competitiveness.

Tadashi Yanai Honored With Malcolm S. Forbes Lifetime Achievement Award

Tadashi Yanai, Chairman, President, and CEO of Fast Retailing—the parent company of Uniqlo—was presented with the Malcolm S. Forbes Lifetime Achievement Award.

The accolade recognized Yanai’s transformative leadership in building one of the world’s largest apparel retailers.

“Over his remarkable career, Tadashi Yanai reshaped global apparel and redefined how clothing companies operate,” said Steve Forbes during the award presentation. Yanai, 76, expressed gratitude, noting, “It is a great honor and pride for me to receive the Malcolm S. Forbes Lifetime Achievement Award. It has been the symbol of success in the global business world.”

Reshaping Industries: From AI-Driven Productivity to Real Estate Resilience

Panel discussions examined the global shifts in trade, investment, and technology. During a session on the global economy, business leaders highlighted how U.S. tariffs and shifting alliances are influencing markets. “Indonesia's GDP growth target of 8% is possible, but we need time and partners to get there,” said Anindya N. Bakrie, Chairman of the Indonesia Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

In a separate dialogue, Steve Forbes cautioned that tariffs “are like a wedge between producers and consumers,” warning that rising global debt—now exceeding $320 trillion—poses a serious risk to economic stability.

Real estate leaders underscored how technology and human connection coexist in the evolving property market. “As AI becomes more advanced, the unique challenge for us is to remind ourselves that we are a human connection business,” said Anthony Capuano, CEO of Marriott International.

Other executives, including IOI Corporation’s Lee Yeow Chor and Prestige Group’s Irfan Razack, echoed the importance of sustainability, urban design, and brand integrity.

Leadership and Resilience: CEOs Share Strategies for Navigating Global Challenges

The conference closed with insights on adaptive leadership and innovation. Joseph E. Aoun, President of Northeastern University, called for “lifelong learning opportunities” to prepare future workforces for rapid change. Yoshito Hori of GLOBIS University emphasized the value of managerial freedom and uniqueness in sustaining business success.

Entrepreneurs Tony Fernandes and Binod K. Chaudhary spoke about resilience in crisis. “You either capitulate or innovate. The key word during a difficult period is resilience,” said Fernandes, CEO of Capital A. William E. Heinecke, Chairman of Minor International, added, “When you have a crisis, we are forced to reduce people. But you can't give up.”

From education to aviation, leaders at the Forbes Global CEO Conference 2025 reaffirmed that adaptability, innovation, and courage will define the future of global growth.

PHOTO: ANTARA/RRI

This article was created with AI assistance.