"The data collection is being completed. We are already underway with the debt cancellation process," Minister of MSMEs Maman Abdurrahman remarked.
He explained that data collection has been carried out on MSMEs that have received debt collection assistance through the Association of State-Owned Banks (Himbara).
However, he acknowledged that technical factors, such as the geographical distance between MSME entrepreneurs in the country, are currently hindering the debt cancellation process.
"Each of them is spread far away. This is a technical matter," Abdurrahman said.
He noted that Himbara has agreed to support the debt cancellation program initiated by President Prabowo Subianto.
Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto earlier stated that around 71,000 MSMEs had received the debt cancellation facility through Himbara.
"From what I have seen, Bank BRI has cleared the most debts," Hartarto stated, referring to one of the state-owned banks.
He explained that the policy is a manifestation of the government's support for MSMEs.
The debt cancellation policy is regulated in Government Regulation (PP) No. 47 of 2024. The regulation is expected to help small businesses in fisheries, farming, and agriculture, as well as other sectors.
"One of the initiatives taken in the first 100 days of Prabowo Subianto's leadership is the debt cancellation and forgiveness program for the benefit of MSMEs," Hartarto added.
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Translator: Sinta A, Kenzu
Editor: Anton Santoso
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