Last Updated on 9. September 2025 by mgm-marketing
In August, I had the opportunity to join a business delegation accompanying German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on his first trip to Asia. The five-day journey took us to Japan and Indonesia—two countries that may seem very different at first glance but both offer significant opportunities for collaboration and digital transformation.
Japan: Openness Meets Caution in Software
The first part of our trip took us to Japan, visiting Tokyo and then Osaka to see the EXPO. We met with government officials, chambers of commerce, and companies to discuss energy, the automotive industry, and raw materials.
What stood out was that software development played hardly any role in these discussions. I see this as a strategic opportunity for mgm: to establish digital partnerships early and to integrate innovation right from the start.
My key takeaway from Japan: Concrete projects take time, but mutual openness and curiosity form the foundation for trust and long-term collaboration.
Indonesia: Surprisingly Dynamic
The second part of the trip took us to Indonesia. To be honest, I hadn’t really considered the country before. With over 280 million people, vast geographic expanse, and a capital like Jakarta, it quickly became clear that Indonesia is one of the emerging powerhouses in the global economy.
In discussions with local entrepreneurs, international corporations, and government officials, I realized the country’s vast diversity—from highly dynamic urban centers to regions that remain deeply traditional.
One striking example is the tax system “Coretax.” Entrepreneurs shared that their teams often have to enter invoices late at night because the system becomes overloaded during the day. For me, this represents a classic case where mgm’s A12 low-code platform could deliver real value—through stability, efficiency, and scalability.
Innovation, Networks, and Trust
In Indonesia, I also met many inspiring people. One visit that left a lasting impression was with Ilham Habibie, son of the former Indonesian president. He runs an incubator for start-ups focused on green tech and sustainable business models—a clear sign of the country’s innovative spirit.
German companies like Bosch and Siemens Energy are also active on the ground. Most operate under European management, while increasingly collaborating closely with local teams and partners.
My takeaway: Learning from Asia—Shaping with A12
I returned with great respect for the openness and energy of the people in Asia. The mix of ambition, pragmatism, and curiosity left a deep impression. For me, it confirmed how important it is to step out of one’s comfort zone, listen, and explore together how technology can create real value.
For mgm, this means that at the intersection of growth and complexity, A12 can help simplify processes, build trust, and deliver long-term digital impact. The planned EU–Indonesia free trade agreement adds further strategic opportunities.
- Visiting key partners in Asia: Foreign Minister Wadephul travels to Japan and Indonesia, Article of German Foreign Ministry, 17.08.2025: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/aussenpolitik/2730478-2730478
- Foreign Minister Wadephul prior to his departure for Japan and Indonesia, Press release of German Foreign Ministry, 17.08.2025: https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/newsroom/news/2730484-2730484
- Till Gartner, Executive Board Member at mgm technology partners, shares insights from his trip to Japan and Indonesia with Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul. He reflects on his encounters and highlights how the mgm A12 low-code platform could deliver real value in emerging markets. https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/newsroom/news/2730772-2730772
