Minister for Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions Yandri Susanto noted in a statement here on Thursday that based on President Prabowo's Subianto's directive, the ministry will assist and empower the people, so the initiative's benefits are tangible.
Susanto further noted that the president expects these cooperatives to improve the welfare of rural residents and those in disadvantaged areas, including coastal and mountainous communities.
He explained that the initiative aims to curb the rampant predatory practices of loan sharks and online lenders that have caused hardship to people. He noted that the Red-White Cooperatives are also expected to streamline distribution chains.
"Through this Red-White Cooperatives initiative, it all can be (done) to save our people. With such a noble goal, we must see to its success together," the minister remarked.
On the same occasion, the minister commended Maluku's people for establishing village-level cooperatives through the Special Village Discussion Forum (Musdesus).
"We are confident that Red-White Cooperatives in Maluku can (push for) economic welfare in village scopes," he remarked.
As of June 17, some 80 thousand Red-White Cooperatives have been created through the forums.
Based on the President's Instruction Number 9 of 2025, a special team and regional government will continue development efforts to establish a legal framework for these entities. The Ministry of Law aims to finalize the legality of these cooperatives by the end of June.
President Prabowo Subianto is set to launch the Red-White Cooperatives on July 12, 2025, coinciding with National Cooperatives Day.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna Ning Prisie
Editor: Primayanti
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