Jayapura, Jubi – The Central Papua Provincial Government has officially launched the Red and White Village/Subdistrict Cooperative (KDMP) in Mimika Regency. The inauguration was attended by Indonesia’s Minister of Cooperatives, Dr. Ferry Juliantono, on Thursday (April 9, 2026).

Representing Governor Meki Nawipa, Central Papua Vice Governor Deinas Geley emphasized that the region’s future development cannot rely solely on large-scale investments, but must be rooted in strengthening people-based economic systems.

He noted that cooperatives play a crucial role in achieving the province’s development vision of a just, competitive, dignified, harmonious, advanced, and sustainable “Golden Central Papua.”

“Cooperatives are not merely business entities, but a platform for economic mutual cooperation that provides communities with access to capital, production, and marketing,” Geley said.

The establishment of the KDMP, he added, marks a concrete step toward enhancing economic independence at the grassroots level. It is expected to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), generate employment based on local potential, and promote equitable welfare across villages and urban neighborhoods.

Geley reaffirmed that strengthening cooperatives and MSMEs remains a key priority in the provincial government’s development agenda, including ongoing efforts to develop cooperatives across all regencies as a foundation for community-based economic growth.

“We believe that if cooperatives are managed properly, transparently, and professionally, they will become a driving force for inclusive and sustainable regional economic growth,” he said.

He also highlighted that the presence of the Minister of Cooperatives at the event reflects the central government’s commitment to advancing people-centered economic development in Papua, particularly in Central Papua.

The inauguration, he continued, serves as an important momentum to strengthen collaboration between central, provincial, and regency governments in building an economic system that prioritizes community welfare.

Geley called on cooperative administrators to uphold public trust by ensuring accountability, transparency, and a strong focus on members’ well-being.

“To all members of the community, let us make use of this cooperative as a shared space to grow, work, and improve our standard of living. With a spirit of togetherness and mutual cooperation, let us make cooperatives the main force in building an independent and prosperous Central Papua. Let us build a Golden Central Papua,” he said. (*)