Asian Games 2018: Long-term benefits Indonesia may see as host country

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The Asian Games, currently underway in Indonesia, has brought about many benefits to the country's economy. Infrastructure and public facilities built by the government are likely to attract more international visitors after the games are over and further boosting its tourism industry. CGTN's Silkina Ahluwalia has more from Jakarta.

Indonesia has spent years preparing for the 18th Asian Games that is currently being co-hosted in two cities, the first of its kind. The country's capital Jakarta and the South Sumatran city of Palembang is hosting nearly ten thousand athletes, delegates, personnel and over four thousand media representatives. That is expected to provide long-term benefits for the country's economy.

SILKINA AHLUWALIA JAKARTA, INDONESIA "The Indonesian government projected the total direct economic impact of hosting the games will be 3.2 billion US Dollars. The preparations have greatly prioritized infrastructure in both cities, which reflects President Joko Widodo's agenda all these years to improve the quality of infrastructure developments across the country."

The facilities that have been constructed will continue to be a major boost to the economy at the local and national levels.

BHIMA YUDHISTIRA ECONOMIST "If this event is successful we hope it will have an impact to the long-term investment in Indonesia because hosting the Asian Games or any kind of Olympics, it means we are showcasing this to the world, to other investors. If we succeed in this one, it means the investor will come to Indonesia and this will create more credibility to the Indonesian government."

Jakarta's local economies are feeling the immediate growth as well. It has opened up opportunities for Aswin, who has been selling Jakarta's favorite street food for years.

ASWIN SAID INDONESIAN TRADITIONAL FOOD VENDOR "This event has allowed me to introduce my business to the international market. People from all over the world are able to enjoy Indonesian delicacies. This event is ongoing for the next few weeks and it will be a good opportunity for me to make good income."

The Asian Games have put Indonesia further into the global spotlight by bringing in foreign investments and international tourists, marking the beginning of Indonesia's success in hosting large-scale events. Silkina Ahluwalia, CGTN, Jakarta.