The central and regional governments have an important role in developing the creative economy in Papua. The Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, for example, has initiated various training and mentoring programs for creative economy actors in Papua. This training covers various aspects, from improving technical skills, business management, to product marketing. Apart from that, the regional government is also trying to provide adequate facilities and infrastructure to support the development of the creative economy. Providing creative spaces, training centers and better internet access are some of the concrete steps that have been taken.
Apart from the government, the role of the private sector and industry is also very important. Many large companies operating in Papua, especially in the mining and forestry sectors, can make positive contributions through corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs. Companies can provide funds, technology and expertise to help develop small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the creative economy sector. This collaboration can create a symbiotic mutualism, where the company gets a positive image and the local community gets support to develop their business.
Chairman of the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Kadin), Arsjad Rasjid, said that the development of the creative economy in West Papua Province requires collaboration between the regional government and the private sector. It can’t just be the government itself, but needs support from the private sector so that together they can move the wheels of the economy. According to him, regional governments as policy makers have an important role in formulating regulations in creating an inclusive and conducive business ecosystem for all business actors in West Papua. An inclusive business ecosystem is not only profit-oriented, but has a positive impact on the social conditions of society which is relevant to the government’s efforts to accelerate welfare development.
Good collaboration between the government, private sector, educational institutions and local communities will create an ecosystem that is conducive to the development of the creative economy in Papua. One successful example of this collaboration is the local culture-based handicraft product development program. This program involves local governments that provide supporting facilities and regulations, private companies that provide funding and market access, educational institutions that provide training, and local communities that are the main producers. As a result, handicraft products from Papua have now been able to penetrate national and international markets, providing additional income for the community and promoting the richness of Papuan culture to the outside world.
Apart from that, regularly held arts and culture festivals are also an effective means of promoting Papua’s creative economy. This festival not only displays local arts and culture, but also opens up business opportunities for creative economy players to exhibit and sell their products. The government, private sector and local communities work together to organize this festival, ensuring that the event runs smoothly and provides maximum benefits for all parties involved.
The tourism sector in Papua is also a strategic sector that is able to drive the region’s economy. One of them is Raja Ampat, an archipelago known as a paradise for divers and underwater nature lovers. With more than 1,500 small islands spread across this area, Raja Ampat offers spectacular underwater views with very high marine biodiversity. Unspoiled coral reefs, various species of fish and other marine biota make Raja Ampat a dream destination for divers from all over the world. Raja Ampat’s natural beauty not only attracts tourists, but also has a significant economic impact on local communities through various tourism-related sectors such as accommodation, transportation and diving services.
The development of culture and nature-based tourism is a very important part of the creative economy in Papua. Collaboration between government, the tourism industry and local communities is needed to develop sustainable and attractive tourist destinations. Training for local communities as tour guides, developing homestays, and promoting tourism through social media are some examples of steps that can be taken to advance this sector.
Deputy Chief of the Moskona Big Tribe in Teluk Bintuni Regency, West Papua, Simson Orocomna said the Papua Regional Government had taken big steps in realizing sustainable development, with one of the main focuses on infrastructure development in Moskona. We really appreciate this innovative step because it is driving the economy in Teluk Bintuni Regency and its surroundings. Accessibility is the main key in the development of a remote region like Moscow. The local government has started construction of roads and bridges connecting Moskona with other areas in Bintuni Bay. This road will not only facilitate people’s mobility, but will also open access for the distribution of goods and services, which will ultimately encourage local economic growth.
In conclusion, the development of the creative economy in Papua requires strong collaboration and synergy between various agencies. The government, private sector, educational institutions and local communities all have an important role in creating a supportive ecosystem. With good cooperation, Papua can develop its economic potential to the maximum, create new jobs and improve community welfare. Through the creative economy, Papua’s cultural and natural wealth can not only be preserved, but also become a valuable resource for sustainable development.
