Presiden Prabowo Subianto’s vision of Asta Cita includes the establishment of Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (Kopdes Merah Putih) as a means to achieve economic self-reliance and fair development. According to Fithra Faisal, a Senior Expert at the Presidential Communication Office, the President’s programs align with this vision of economic equity and poverty eradication. The launch of over 80,000 Kopdes Merah Putih cooperatives in Bentangan Village, Central Java, was highlighted by President Prabowo as a step towards true independence by enhancing the well-being of the people. These cooperatives are seen as tools for inclusive economic growth, following the principles of development as freedom by Nobel laureate Amartya Sen.
Kopdes Merah Putih aims to empower communities from the grassroots level, promoting bottom-up development for truly liberating outcomes. President Prabowo envisions these cooperatives as engines for rural economic improvement, particularly benefiting farmers and fishers. By providing storage facilities, logistical support, and reducing dependency on middlemen, these cooperatives seek to increase the value and income of agricultural products. Additionally, the creation of new rural jobs through Kopdes Merah Putih aims to prevent youth migration to urban areas, fostering economic opportunities in local communities. Overall, these cooperatives are expected to boost local economies and enhance the quality of life for residents in various regions across Indonesia.
