LombokZone.com

Tag: government support

  • Governor Iqbal Strengthens Village Economy Through Cooperatives

    Governor Iqbal Strengthens Village Economy Through Cooperatives

    Lombok Zone – The Governor of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), Lalu Muhamad Iqbal, has expressed his unwavering commitment to enhancing the village economy by promoting the development of cooperatives and community-based business ecosystems. His remarks came during a meeting with the management of the Merah Putih Melayu Asakota Cooperative in Bima City on Monday, March 2.

    Governor Iqbal highlighted that the local government is poised to assist in advancing technology and formulating business plans to ensure that cooperatives and village enterprises operate effectively. He also mentioned that support would be provided to facilitate access to capital through banking channels.

    “We will help draft the business plans to enable them to apply for bank loans. It’s crucial that these cooperatives are engaged in actual business, not just operating storefronts,” he stressed.

    He pointed out that the distribution chain for agricultural products has been excessively lengthy, resulting in farmers not reaping optimal profits. The produce goes through various intermediaries before reaching the market, which adversely affects the farmers’ bargaining power.

    The cooperative concept championed by the government aims to shorten this distribution chain. With cooperatives, farmers can sell their products directly to the market or end buyers, thereby improving their bargaining position in price negotiations.

    Governor Iqbal also encouraged the development of productive enterprises in villages, such as small-scale egg-laying poultry farms and greenhouse horticulture. These business models are considered practical for meeting local market demands while reducing dependence on external supplies.

    He cited that through collective chicken coop management, villages could produce thousands of eggs weekly, marketed via cooperatives. Similarly, cultivating chili and daily consumption vegetables could satisfy high community demand.

    During the event, he also provided support in the form of infrastructure and equipment to the Merah Putih Melayu Asakota Cooperative, underscoring the government’s tangible commitment to accelerate cooperative operations and business development in the villages.

    He reiterated that strengthening the village economy transcends mere political discourse; it is a significant endeavor towards improving community welfare. “If it’s about politics, we can discuss it in its own arena. However, addressing the economic concerns of the people is a task we must undertake together,” he concluded.
  • Minister Visits East Lombok to Boost Fishermen’s Welfare

    Minister Visits East Lombok to Boost Fishermen’s Welfare

    Lombok Zone – On Friday, February 27, 2026, Indonesia’s Minister of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Sakti Wahyu Trenggono, embarked on a work visit to Ekas Buana Village in Jerowaru District, East Lombok. Accompanied by NTB’s Acting Regional Secretary Lalu Moh Faozal and East Lombok Regent Haerul Warisin, the Minister reviewed the facilities at the Red and White Fishermen’s Village.

    During the visit, Minister Trenggono inspected the cold storage facility and ice manufacturing plant, emphasizing the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of local fishermen. He highlighted the area’s significant fisheries potential, especially in lobster commodities, and encouraged fishermen to transition from selling lobster seeds to cultivating them for higher added value.

    “We will also assist with 10 fishing boats and machinery. If you are catching lobster seeds, do not sell them; instead, cultivate them. If you lack farming nets, just request them from the Director General, and we will distribute them directly,” the Minister firmly stated in front of the fishermen.

    Regent Haerul Warisin expressed his appreciation for the support from the central government, noting that the Red and White Fishermen’s Village’s existence is strategic for enhancing marine tourism and floating culinary experiences in Ekas. However, he also pointed out the urgent needs of the fishermen, including the establishment of a fuel station for fishermen (SPBUN) and the rejuvenation of fishing boat engines.

    “The presence of the Red and White Fishermen’s Village greatly supports our tourism. However, there are still shortcomings; firstly, we need the SPBUN and replacements for damaged boat engines. Hopefully, we can receive assistance, especially with this 10-ton storage facility, allowing fishermen to avoid selling their catches at low prices, controlling prices through cooperative trading systems,” he remarked.

    The visit was also attended by the Deputy Regent of West Lombok, Nurul Adha, the Head of the NTB Marine and Fisheries Office, Muslim, and various officials from the Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries.