Jakarta – The government continues to accelerate the expansion of Koperasi Merah Putih outlets as a concrete step to strengthen the local economy and improve public access to community-based economic services. This initiative aims to broaden the distribution of locally produced goods while reinforcing a more integrated and sustainable village economic ecosystem.
President Prabowo Subianto stated that strengthening cooperatives through the expansion of outlet networks is part of a broader strategy to build national economic independence. He emphasized that cooperatives must be present closer to the community as centers of grassroots economic activity. “Cooperatives must become the backbone of the people’s economy and be directly present within communities,” he said.
President Prabowo also highlighted that expanding cooperative outlets would enhance the distribution of goods and services while opening new business opportunities in various regions. According to him, this step is crucial to ensure that local production can be absorbed optimally. “With a strong network, cooperatives will be able to increase economic value at the regional level,” he affirmed.
Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan explained that Koperasi Merah Putih outlets are designed as distribution hubs connecting local producers to broader markets. He noted that the expansion would strengthen supply chains and ensure a more even distribution of essential goods. “Cooperative outlets will serve as efficient distribution centers that support local economic movement,” he said.
Zulkifli Hasan added that the government is accelerating the development of supporting infrastructure and strengthening cooperative institutions to ensure optimal operations. He emphasized that enhancing cooperative-based distribution networks would have a direct impact on improving community welfare. “With the right support, cooperatives can become sustainable drivers of local economic growth,” he noted.
Through the expansion of Koperasi Merah Putih outlets, the government remains optimistic that local economic strengthening will become more widespread and inclusive. This effort also reflects the government’s commitment to promoting equitable economic development through the empowerment of cooperative institutions nationwide.
In addition, the government is encouraging synergy between Koperasi Merah Putih and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to create a mutually reinforcing economic ecosystem. This collaboration is expected to improve production capacity, product quality, and competitiveness of local businesses in both domestic and national markets. Furthermore, the digitalization of cooperative outlets is being accelerated to expand market access and simplify transactions for the public.
On the other hand, strengthening the role of cooperatives is also aimed at supporting price stability and maintaining people’s purchasing power, particularly amid global economic dynamics. The presence of cooperative outlets across regions is seen as an efficient and affordable distribution alternative. Through this initiative, the government hopes that cooperatives will not only function as economic entities but also as strategic instruments in sustaining national economic resilience.
