Jayapura. Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), Maman Abdurrahman, reaffirmed his commitment to improving services and protection for local entrepreneurs in Papua, calling their progress a reflection of the nation’s strength.

“For the growth of MSMEs in Papua, let us continue to support, uplift, and empower one another -- because Papua’s success is Indonesia’s success,” Maman said during the Festival of MSME Facilitation and Protection in Jayapura on Wednesday.

According to the minister, the government’s ongoing facilitation program has led to a 300 percent increase in MSME licensing and certification over the past year. “We are committed to supporting MSMEs nationwide through simplified licensing and certification so they can become more competitive and integrated within the national supply chain,” he said.

Maman added that the progress represents the government’s tangible commitment under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership to strengthen small enterprises as the backbone of Indonesia’s economy.

He also urged local governments to take a more proactive role in expanding MSME financing, particularly through the People’s Business Credit (KUR) program. “I encourage provincial and regional administrations to actively propose qualified KUR borrowers without overlooking business competency. I believe Papua can double this year’s achievement,” he said.

As of October 2025, total KUR disbursement in Papua reached Rp 1.75 trillion ($104 million), benefiting 23,955 borrowers across the province.

“With the new governor and deputy governor in office, I hope Papua’s MSMEs continue to advance and local entrepreneurs gain greater benefits from KUR programs,” Maman added.

Papua Deputy Governor Aryoko Rumaropen expressed appreciation for the central government’s continued support in building the province’s MSME sector through collaboration among state-owned enterprises, banks, and private partners.

“We can see the enthusiasm of MSME players when they know the government is standing behind them. Our hope is that MSMEs in Papua will keep growing and bring real economic benefits to local communities,” Aryoko said.