“These business assistants will act as catalysts for growth and provide direct business development support to the Red and White Co-ops,” said Panel Barus, deputy for Cooperative Business Development, in a statement on Wednesday.
BAs will assist cooperative leaders in integrating with the Village Cooperative Information Management System (Simkopdes), as well as in drafting and executing business plans to kickstart operations.
They will also help complete business licensing requirements—essential for securing financing from state-owned banks, financial institutions, and non-bank lenders.
Additional responsibilities include preparing business proposals and supporting the daily operations of co-op management and supervisory teams.
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“One business assistant will guide 10 Red and White Co-ops,” Barus said.
The ministry targets recruiting 8,000 BAs to support 80,000 cooperatives across the country.
To strengthen their impact, the ministry, in partnership with state-owned enterprises, will continue training programs to build the capacity of co-op leaders in management, financial administration, trade, and operational skills.
Support for co-ops also includes the adoption of production technologies, improved logistics, and digital business tools to enhance efficiency.
Digital literacy is a key focus, with co-op personnel receiving training in the use of digital apps, online marketplaces, e-payments, and access to banking and financial services.
The Red and White Co-ops are part of a national initiative to empower village-level economies by promoting cooperative-based enterprises, especially in rural and underserved regions.
The program aligns with Indonesia’s broader goals of financial inclusion, rural development, and digital transformation in the cooperative sector.
Related news: Red and White Village Cooperatives drive rapid growth local prosperity
Translator: Shofi, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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