JAKARTA – Former Indonesian President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) said Papua has significant potential to be developed into a center of industrial growth and the creative economy. He said these sectors could become new sources of economic growth while creating broader business opportunities for local communities.
Jokowi said Papua’s natural resources, cultural diversity, and the creativity of its people constitute important assets for developing the regional economy. If managed properly and sustainably, these potentials could generate greater added value for local communities and strengthen the economy across Papua.
According to Jokowi, Papua’s economic development should not rely solely on natural-resource-based sectors but should also focus on creative industries that promote the region’s cultural wealth and local wisdom. Handicrafts, arts, fashion, culinary products, and other creative works produced by Papuan communities are considered to have strong potential to reach wider national and international markets.
The development of the creative economy also requires a strong supporting ecosystem, including improvements in human resources, access to financing, marketing, technology, and connectivity between regions. With adequate support, local entrepreneurs in Papua are expected to improve the quality of their products and strengthen their competitiveness.
Jokowi also emphasized the importance of providing greater opportunities for young Papuans to innovate and develop the potential of their regions. The creativity of young people, he said, could become an important force in creating new employment opportunities while promoting Papua’s cultural identity at the national and international levels.
Ultimately, the development of industry and the creative economy in Papua is expected not only to accelerate economic growth but also to improve community welfare and strengthen Papua’s position as a region with significant economic and cultural potential within Indonesia.
