By Akhyari Hananto

World’s biggest party, the World Cup 2010, ended a week ago. No matter what happened during the World Cup, it will be long memorized by many billion of football fans, even after our generation is gone. South Africa has truly proven that once torn nation can host such a big and prestigious event like the World Cup. Who benefits the most from World Cup? Not Spain, for sure. It’s South Africa.

I can still clearly recall when Nelson Mandela came to Jakarta to borrow money and ended up going home with $1 million of grant in his pocket. Now, less than 25 years later, South Africa has become one of the most promising economy in the world, and set to be world’s next power, currently achieving GDP per capita at the same level of Turkey. Dedication, hardwork, and unity has led South Africa to the world stage, gaining worldwide respect and appreciation.

Indonesia, even somehow lagging slightly behind, is set to follow the path of South Africa. With economic growth set to be 7 percent in 2014, Indonesia is on track to surpass some European powerhouse countries sometimes by 2030, to make its economy in the world’s top 10.

We’ve received heartwarming yet shocking news where Singapore economy will grow 15-19 % this year, to make it the fastest growing economy in the world. Singapore is undoubtedly one of the most prosperous countries in the world, thanks to its strategic geographic location, committed and clean government, strong population, and continuous economic penetration.

Comparing Singapore to Indonesia is not only unfair, it’s also impossible. Singapore is like a small boat carrying small number of people. It can blaze the sea faster and easier than a super big vessel with vast number of passenger like Indonesia. However, Singapore’s fast growing economy will only give limited extend of impact, while Indonesia’s growing economy combined with strong stability will shake the world.

Let’s wait.

Akhyari Hananto is the founder of GNFI. He can be reached at [email protected].

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