Media

JAKARTA — The Papua chapter of the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO Papua) has called on the government to strengthen support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Papua through human resource development, digitalization training, and expanded access to export markets.

Chair of MSME Affairs at APINDO Papua, Anita Hellen Faidiban, emphasized the need for affirmative support from both the central government and regional administrations in Papua.

“We hope the central government, through the Ministry of MSMEs, as well as regional governments in Papua, can provide affirmative support in the form of sustainability reporting training, digitalization, financing access, and market expansion,” Hellen said after attending a Business and Law Seminar at Pelita Harapan University on Saturday (April 25, 2026).

She stated that training programs and improved market access would help strengthen the welfare of Papuan communities.

According to Hellen, Papua’s MSME products possess strong and distinctive market potential. She cited processed fish products packaged using modern technology to maintain quality and shelf life as one example of the region’s competitive offerings.

For that reason, she stressed that capacity-building for MSME entrepreneurs is increasingly important amid intensifying global competition and rapid technological transformation in business practices.

Hellen explained that APINDO Papua has continued to provide information and training to help entrepreneurs market their products through e-commerce platforms, as consumers increasingly rely on digital channels to access leading products.

“In line with the direction of APINDO Papua Chair Moses Morin, we continue to coordinate and communicate with all MSME sectors in Papua so they can adapt to technological developments and penetrate global markets,” she said.

She added that APINDO Papua’s current work programs are focused on strengthening human resources to ensure that MSME products can become attractive to international markets.

“Several initiatives we have implemented and continue to develop involve strengthening the capabilities of entrepreneurs so their products can reach global markets. The education we provide includes technology-based training to produce high-quality products that can compete internationally,” Hellen explained.

The Papua Gelora Party leader also emphasized that entrepreneurship is a noble profession that can contribute to society beyond economic gain.

According to her, entrepreneurship is not solely about profit, but also about creating employment opportunities. She noted that she has employed indigenous Papuans across her business operations.

“What I do is not merely about economics. It goes beyond that because I remember my brothers and sisters in Papua who also need income to support their lives. That is why I encourage them to begin entrepreneurship through small creative initiatives. For me, we must become resilient women and pioneers in business. Through entrepreneurship, we become a blessing to others,” she stated.

Hellen further explained that amid uncertain economic conditions, entrepreneurs must remain creative and innovative. The current challenges have motivated her to continue encouraging Papuan MSMEs to grow and move to a higher level.

She argued that building Papua requires collective effort from all sectors, and entrepreneurship is one practical way to contribute to regional development. Despite Papua’s vast natural resources, she noted that such potential will not generate meaningful benefits unless properly managed.

In this regard, she encouraged Papuans to develop flagship products across sectors such as agriculture, livestock, fisheries, culinary businesses, furniture, and manufacturing industries.

She believes these sectors can increase Papua’s attractiveness and stimulate broader economic circulation within the region.

“Through entrepreneurship, we contribute directly to Papua’s development. We may start small, but the impact can be significant for the progress of Papua,” she said.

Hellen also called on young Papuans to become more active in the MSME sector, especially as the government has opened access to financing through state-owned banks.

“What matters most right now is that we begin. Others may already be running fast while we have not even crossed the starting line yet. But it is never too late for those who truly want to succeed,” she concluded.

Source: Tribunnews.com