Red and White Cooperatives as Proof of Inclusive Economy from Villages for Indonesia

President Prabowo Subianto on Monday (07/21) holds a dialog with regional leaders via video conference, in Bentangan village, Wonosari district, Klaten regency, Central Java province. (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat).

President Prabowo Subianto on Monday (07/21) held a dialog with regional leaders via video conference, in Bentangan village, Wonosari district, Klaten regency, Central Java province.

On that occasion, the President inspected the establishment and operationalization of Red and White Village Cooperatives (KDMP). The President welcomed the initiative and swift action in strengthening the cooperatives in many regions.

“We will develop our cooperatives as part of our service to the nation and the people,” President Prabowo said.

On the occasion, Governor of East Java Khofifah Indar Parawansa reported that all 8,494 villages and sub-districts in the province have established cooperatives. Khofifah expressed hope that the cooperatives will play a pivotal role in economic empowerment.

“Mr. President, we have received tremendous support from Bulog (State Logistics Agency), and now Pertamina (State-Owned Oil and Gas Company) is making great effort to support us as well, and so are fertilizer producers. We hope everyone can take an active part in supporting this big idea, Mr. President — [building] an economy from the villages, for the villages, and dedicated to Great Indonesia,” the Governor said.

Participants from border regions such as Belu regency in East Nusa Tenggara province also showed their great enthusiasm. Regent of Belu Willybrodus Lay stated that they are encouraging the digitalization of cooperatives by involving younger generation.

“Thank you, Mr. President. This cooperative initiative greatly helps our region, and most of the cooperative managers are young people from villages who have joined to lead these cooperatives,” the Regent said.

From North Maluku province, Governor Sherly Tjoanda stated that 100 percent of villages in the province now have legally established cooperatives. Sherly expressed optimism that the cooperatives will become a solution for inclusive economic growth and deliver positive impact for the community.

“The Red and White Cooperatives are the solution for inclusive economic growth in North Maluku. This way, economic progress can directly impact rural communities,” Sherly said.

Closing the dialog session, President Prabowo expressed his confidence in the cooperatives’ role in improving public welfare.

“Thank you, Governor, and all cooperative leaders. We believe this will help boost our economy and improve the welfare of the people,” the President remarked. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (RI/TM)