Integrating Two Programs, Prabowo-Gibran Boosts Local Economy
Jakarta – The Prabowo-Gibran administration is considered successful in strengthening the local economy through the integration of two strategic programs: Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) and the Merah Putih Village Cooperative (Kopdes Merah Putih). The synergy between the two has created a more vibrant economic chain in villages, from increased production to employment.
For example, Andi Sri Rahayu Usmi, Chair of the Indonesian Village Observer Association (Apdesi) for South Sulawesi, proposed that the MBG program be managed by the Merah Putih Kopdes. With Kopdes Merah Putih managing the program, President Prabowo Subianto’s priority program can create jobs and drive the local economy, especially at the village level.
“The presence of the Merah Putih Kopdes truly improves prosperity. There are already efforts underway related to the MBG. In my opinion, the MBG should be empowered within the Kopdes so that, firstly, jobs can be created, and secondly, the village’s resources can be utilized,” Rahayu explained.
He explained that the collaboration between the MBG and Kopdes (village cooperatives) is a concrete solution for improving the welfare of village communities, as long as its implementation is aligned with the potential of local human and natural resources.
“Regarding the Red and White Kopdes, the potential of human and natural resources must be harmonized, so that business activities that are irrelevant to the village’s potential cannot be undertaken,” he explained.
Meanwhile, the Head of the South Sulawesi Manpower and Transmigration Agency (Disnakertrans), Jayadi Nas, is optimistic that unemployment in South Sulawesi will decrease this year thanks to this national program. This is because several programs currently exist that can absorb workers, such as the SPPG (Small Business Development Program) or MBG kitchen.
“There are 47 SPPGs (workers), and the Red and White Cooperative has at least 5. This is an excellent opportunity. With the MBG program, new job openings have emerged, thank God. There is a supply of raw materials and jobs are created,” Jayadi concluded.
