In a statement released by his Secretariat here, Gibran quoted President Prabowo Subianto as saying that markets are an integral part of such an economy and the backbone of people's lives.
He then expressed the hope that Atom Market, which is one of the largest and oldest markets in Surabaya, will continue to grow and emerge as an economic hub that empowers members of the public, especially merchants.
The Vice President then underlined the need for Indonesian markets to innovate and adopt digital technologies to enhance their competitiveness and reach a broader base of consumers, both at the local and national levels.
He further added that the government will improve market facilities, offer training programs to merchants, and strengthen supply chains to ensure the availability of goods at reasonable prices.
He visited the market on Tuesday to review preparations for the upcoming Chinese New Year. He visited a number of kiosks displaying items related to the festivities.
Billy, one of the merchants at Atom Market, said that the Chinese New Year has positively affected his income.
"We have been experiencing a rise (in income) this year," he informed while attributing the positive trend to the growing count of visitors at the market, which has crossed 200 daily.
The merchant expressed the hope that VP Gibran's visit will introduce Atom Market to a broader population, enabling it to thrive further.
According to the Vice Presidential Secretariat, Gibran's visit reflects the government's commitment to guiding traditional markets to solidify their role as the epicenter of the people-oriented economy and a space for social interactions and cultural preservation.
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Translator: Fathur R, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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