Demographic analysis and market data are important factors in identifying a region's economic potential, particularly in regional markets such as ASEAN.
Population size and the structure of the working-age population help determine consumer demand and a market's attractiveness to businesses and investors.
This was conveyed by Banjaran Surya Indrastomo, Chief Economist of PT Bank Syariah Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (BRIS), or BSI, at an international symposium titled “Logistics and Maritime Future: Advancing Connectivity, Leadership and ASEAN Prosperity through the Halal Supply Chain Ecosystem”. The event was organised by Menara Syariah and Universiti Brunei Darussalam at Menara Syariah in Pantai Indah Kapuk (PIK) 2, Banten, on Wednesday (21/10).
In his presentation, the speaker highlighted the region's large population as one of the factors underpinning ASEAN's economic potential.
The region's population was estimated at around 616 million, with approximately 40% living in Indonesia. Malaysia, meanwhile, has a population of around 35 million, further strengthening the regional market's potential.
In terms of age structure, around 50% of the population was said to be of working age, particularly millennials and Generation Z. These groups are considered important drivers of economic activity and consumption.
This is one of the factors supporting a demographic dividend, a situation in which the proportion of the working-age population is relatively large compared with the non-working-age population.
Supported by improvements in human capital, job availability and purchasing power, this demographic profile could create broader opportunities for economic growth.
Integration of the financial and banking sectors
In the financial sector, banks, including Islamic banks, are considered to play a strategic role in supporting cross-border transactions and regional trade financing.
By developing a more diverse range of products and services, Islamic banks have the potential to expand financing support for cross-border business activities.
Their role is not limited to domestic needs and individual customers, but can also extend to businesses involved in regional trade.
In addition, digital transformation in banking is creating opportunities to improve transaction efficiency, productivity and financial inclusion.
The use of technology enables financial services to be accessed more easily and quickly, while supporting smoother business transactions.
Integrating demographic insights, market data, stronger regional trade and the development of financial services is expected to help stakeholders identify economic opportunities and strengthen ASEAN's competitiveness.
Source: IDN Financials
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<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
