Presiden Prabowo Subianto’s vision for achieving true independence through economic self-reliance and equitable development is evident in the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives. These cooperatives, known as Kopdes Merah Putih, are part of the Asta Cita initiative, aiming to build economic equity and eradicate poverty from the grassroots level. Fithra Faisal, a Senior Expert at the Presidential Communication Office, highlighted the President’s commitment to inclusive economic growth during the launch of over 80,000 cooperatives in Bentangan Village, Central Java.
President Prabowo emphasized that true independence goes beyond national symbols and must reflect in the well-being of the people. Kopdes Merah Putih is envisioned as engines of inclusive economic growth, in line with the philosophy of development as freedom. These cooperatives aim to empower communities, remove “unfreedoms” like poverty and hunger, and enhance human capabilities.
Fithra explained how Kopdes Merah Putih will address challenges faced by farmers and fishers, such as low exchange values for their products and dependency on middlemen. By providing storage facilities, logistics support, and reducing dependency on intermediaries, these cooperatives are designed to improve productivity, increase income, and create new rural job opportunities.
Through the establishment of Kopdes Merah Putih, President Prabowo aims to strengthen grassroots participation, boost rural economies, and prevent youth migration to urban areas. By creating approximately 480,000 direct jobs through 80,000 cooperatives across Indonesia, these initiatives are not only promoting economic growth but also opening up new opportunities for the youth to build their future in their hometowns.
