Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (Kopdes) have been identified as key players in the distribution of subsidized essential goods like LPG and fertilizers in rural areas, according to Minister of Cooperatives Budi Arie Setiadi. The government’s initiative is to leverage Kopdes Merah Putih as the primary distribution network to ensure direct access to these vital supplies for rural residents while also streamlining the supply chain. While Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDes) will continue their normal operations, Kopdes is set to serve as the main avenue for disseminating subsidized goods and social aid.
To empower local communities and stimulate rural economies, the government is dedicated to establishing 80,000 units of Kopdes Merah Putih. The financing for these units will be meticulously handled to ensure that the benefits directly reach the villagers in the respective communities. Minister Budi underlined the importance of viewing Kopdes as a business entity owned by the village, with profits being shared among local members. This cooperative model is designed to reinforce cooperative principles and bolster economic activities within the village.
