By: Tengku Agam Bintang )*
President Joko Widodo has emphasized the importance of developing the creative economy sector and small businesses as a basis for increasing Indonesia’s competitiveness at the global level. With this vision, AMANAH (Aneuk Muda Aceh Unggul Besar) is committed to strengthening Aceh’s local economy through various creative programs that are in line with government policy direction. AMANAH’s main focus is to empower Aceh’s young generation, providing real support so that they can explore and maximize their potential in various fields that contribute to regional economic growth.
President Jokowi consistently encourages the growth of the creative economy, making it one of the priorities in efforts to improve people’s quality of life and create new jobs. In Jokowi’s view, the creative economy sector not only provides job opportunities but also has the potential to be a major driver of national economic growth. This is especially relevant in Aceh, which is rich in culture, traditions and natural resources that can be utilized to develop high-value creative products.
One of AMANAH’s main focuses is to empower Aceh’s young generation to become active economic actors. Through various training programs and workshops, AMANAH seeks to hone the skills and knowledge of young people in the fields of entrepreneurship, design and product innovation. In this way, the young generation of Aceh is expected to be able to develop quality local products that are able to compete in national and international markets.
One of AMANAH’s concrete steps in supporting local economic growth is by holding MSME seminars in collaboration with the IAIN Takengon Student Executive Council (DEMA) and the Central Aceh Regency Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises Service. This activity took place in the IAIN Takengon Campus Hall and was attended by hundreds of students and local MSMEs. This seminar aims to foster an entrepreneurial spirit among the younger generation, especially among students.
The General Chairperson of DEMA IAIN Takengon, Alwin Rezeki, explained that this seminar was designed to inspire the young generation to have a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. Alwin stated that this activity was held to foster an innovative mindset and provide understanding to the younger generation so they can continue to upgrade themselves, especially in the field of entrepreneurship.
This seminar presented competent speakers in their fields, such as Taniro Jaya, S.I.Kom, MAP, Head of Cooperative and SME Empowerment, and Ihsanuddin, S.T, owner of Ulunuwih Coffee. The material presented is very relevant to the challenges faced by MSME players today, such as product development, marketing and effective business strategies. With the knowledge provided by the presenters, it is hoped that the participants will be able to implement what they have learned to develop their businesses in the future.
Apart from that, Alwin also highlighted the great potential that Central Aceh has in the tourism sector. According to him, the existence of various attractive tourist destinations in this area provides opportunities for MSMEs to create products and services that can meet tourists’ needs. Alwin explained that Central Aceh is an area that has great potential in the tourism sector. With the increasing number of tourists coming to the area, there will be many opportunities for entrepreneurs to develop.
The MSME assistance program implemented by AMANAH is very much in line with the government’s vision of empowering the people’s economy. AMANAH is committed to providing training, guidance and support to MSMEs so that the younger generation can be more competitive. This activity includes skills training, understanding of business management, and access to a wider market.
In the context of this situation, President Jokowi has long encouraged people-based economic growth by prioritizing the development of the MSME sector. Through initiatives like this, it is hoped that more young entrepreneurs will be born in Aceh, ready to face challenges in the era of globalization. Alwin emphasized that with this activity, he hopes that many young entrepreneurs will be able to provide innovation and create jobs in the future
With the various programs and activities implemented by AMANAH, Aceh’s young generation now has a great opportunity to contribute to the development of the local economy. It is hoped that these efforts will not only have a positive impact on individuals, but will also contribute to overall regional economic growth. The spirit of collaboration between government, academics and society in empowering the younger generation is the key to creating a brighter future for Aceh’s economy.
Along with the steps taken, AMANAH is committed to continuing to innovate and contribute to strengthening the creative economic sector in Aceh, in line with President Jokowi’s vision to build an economy that is highly competitive and based on local potential. In this way, AMANAH will not only be an institution that supports economic growth, but will also be a driving force that will take Aceh in a better and more prosperous direction.
)* Member of the Aceh Young Entrepreneurial Community