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MERAUKE – The Provincial Leadership Council (DPP) of the Indonesian Employers Association (APINDO) South Papua held a Member Gathering at Halogen Hotel Merauke on Thursday afternoon (October 8, 2026).

The event was attended by leaders of APINDO Regency Leadership Councils (DPK) across South Papua, company executives, business operators in agriculture and fisheries, forestry-related industries—including palm oil and sugarcane plantations—and members of APINDO South Papua.

In his welcoming remarks, Chairman of APINDO South Papua, Herman Anitu Basik-Basik, expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all members and invited guests who had taken the time to attend.

“Our presence here today demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening ties, fostering solidarity, and building a more advanced business community in South Papua,” he said.

As a relatively young province, South Papua has significant economic potential, Herman Anitu noted.

Agriculture, fisheries, marine resources, trade, forestry-related industries—including palm oil and sugarcane plantations—as well as various other business sectors offer opportunities for continued growth and can serve as drivers of the regional economy.

However, he acknowledged that the business community would face considerable challenges in the years ahead.

Economic fluctuations, regulatory changes, market competition, and technological developments require businesses to continually adapt, innovate, and strengthen their competitiveness.

“That is why we cannot move forward independently. We need unity, communication, and strong collaboration among business operators to ensure that our potential can be developed to its fullest,” he stressed.

According to Herman Anitu, this is where APINDO South Papua plays an important role.

APINDO is more than just an organization; it is a shared platform where businesspeople can exchange ideas, voice their aspirations, build partnerships, and seek solutions to the various challenges facing the business community.

In line with the direction and commitments of the current leadership, he outlined three key priorities that must continue to be advanced collectively.

“First, strengthening the competitiveness of regional businesses. We want companies and business operators in South Papua to grow, innovate, and compete at the national level and beyond,” Herman Anitu explained.

Second, improving the quality of human resources.

“We need to create more opportunities for local workers to develop by improving their skills and competencies and expanding access to decent employment,” he said.

Third, strengthening the people's economy and local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

MSMEs must be given the space, support, and opportunities they need to grow and participate in the regional economic value chain.

In this way, business growth can generate broader benefits for the people of South Papua.

The Member Gathering was more than just a social event. It also provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships, expand business networks, share experiences, and explore new opportunities for collaboration among members.

“I hope this meeting will generate concrete ideas and collaborative initiatives that we can follow up on together,” he said.

“Let us make the most of this opportunity to get to know one another better, understand each other's needs, and build trust as the foundation for sustainable partnerships,” Herman Anitu urged.

Furthermore, APINDO South Papua must continue to serve as a strategic partner to the regional government in promoting economic growth, creating a healthy investment climate, and advocating for the interests of the business community.

With a strong organization and effective communication, I am confident that the aspirations of businesspeople can be conveyed constructively for the advancement of the region and the well-being of its people.

“I would also like to thank the entire organizing committee, sponsors, and all parties who contributed to the success of this event,” he said.

Herman Anitu called on all APINDO South Papua members to maintain unity, strengthen collaboration, and actively contribute to regional economic development.

“Let us build a South Papuan business community that is resilient, inclusive, independent, and sustainable,” he said.

Together with APINDO, businesspeople unite, businesses advance, and South Papua prospers!

“May this event bring benefits, strengthen our bonds, and generate meaningful cooperation for all of us,” concluded Herman Anitu Basik-Basik.

Source: Berita Papua Selatan