Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) expects Indonesia's membership in the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) from October 2023 to bolster efforts to prevent and eradicate money laundering crimes.
"I expect our full membership in FATF will provide good momentum to continue strengthening our commitment to prevent and eradicate money laundering," Jokowi stated on Wednesday.
During the 22nd anniversary of the National Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Terrorism Financing Movement commemoration in Jakarta, he emphasized that a firm commitment against money laundering will boost Indonesia's economic credibility.
He also highlighted that it would improve the international perception of Indonesia's economic system. "It is important because, in the end, it will encourage investments to flock to Indonesia. Reputation is important. International appraisal is also important," Jokowi stressed.
He expressed gratitude to the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK) as well as related ministries and agencies for their hard work throughout Indonesia's accession process as a full member of FATF.
Becoming a full member of FATF is not an easy feat for any country, he said. "In the past, I was ashamed because, among the G20 countries, only Indonesia did not become a FATF member," Jokowi remarked.
He affirmed that Indonesia's full membership in FATF signifies international approval of the country's effective regulations, coordination, and implementation efforts in combating money laundering and terrorism financing.
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On April 5, Jokowi signed Presidential Decree Number 14 of 2024 concerning Indonesia's membership in the FATF, following the country's acceptance as the 40th member of the group. PPATK Head Ivan Yustiavandana said the decree would strengthen Indonesia's commitment to participating in combating global financial crimes.
Indonesia's FATF membership boosts money laundering fight: Jokowi
President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) delivers his remarks during the 22nd anniversary of the National Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Terrorism Financing Movement commemoration at the State Palace in Jakarta on April 17, 2024. (ANTARA FOTO/Hafidz Mubarak A/YU)
