Head of GPEI South Sulawesi Encourages MSME Actors to Continue Growing in PT Pelindo Regional IV Activities

MAKASSAR — The Chairman of the Indonesian Exporters Association (GPEI) for South and West Sulawesi (Sulselbar), Arief R. Pabettingi, was present as a guest speaker at an event organized by PT Pelindo Regional IV at the Makassar Port Passenger Terminal on Tuesday, October 21, 2025.

The event involved more than 100 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from various sectors in Makassar City, as well as a number of port stakeholders. The event aimed to motivate and encourage MSMEs to continue developing themselves amid dynamic economic challenges.

In his presentation, Arief R. Pabettingi emphasized the importance of a spirit of learning and innovation for business actors in order to survive and compete in an increasingly competitive market.

“MSME entrepreneurs must continue to hone their skills, dare to adapt, and not be easily discouraged. The business world is constantly changing, but opportunities are always open to those who are willing to learn and innovate,” said Arief.

The Regional Coordinator for Sulawesi-Maluku of the DPP GPEI also encourages MSME players in Makassar to improve product quality and business management, as well as to take advantage of the export potential in the South Sulawesi region. According to him, support from various parties, including Pelindo, is a positive step in strengthening the regional business ecosystem.

“We at GPEI are ready to support MSMEs that want to upgrade to become exporters. South Sulawesi has many excellent products, it's just a matter of how we prepare human resources and a strong network,” he added.

Meanwhile, Executive Director of Pelindo Regional IV, H Abd Azis, said that through these activities, his party is striving to make the port area not only a logistics center, but also a space for collaboration and local economic empowerment.

The atmosphere of the event was warm and interactive, with a question and answer session that was enthusiastically attended by the participants. Many MSME players appreciated the event because it provided inspiration and new insights into developing their businesses.

This activity demonstrates Pelindo's commitment, together with its strategic partners, including GPEI Sulselbar, to promoting MSME-based economic growth and strengthening the role of local businesses in the Makassar port area.