On Tuesday, the Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin) provided equipment assistance to Indigenous Papuan (Orang Asli Papua, OAP) fisheries businesses in Biak Numfor, Papua. Budi Harsono, Functional Supervisor of the Directorate of Food, Furniture, and Building Materials of the Directorate General of Small and Medium Industries (IKM) and Miscellaneous Industries, highlighted that this aid aims to enhance the production capabilities and independence of OAP entrepreneurs. The equipment provided includes cooking utensils, refrigerators, freezers, stoves, gas fuel, pots, pans, and packaging production tools. This support is considered state property purchased from taxpayers' money, thus it should be maintained properly to support the operational activities of the OAP business groups. In addition to equipment, the ministry offers management guidance and support to these entrepreneurs. Budi expressed hope that this aid will increase the economic income of OAP businesses.
Elkanus Binwasef, the leader of the OAP fisheries business group, expressed gratitude and pride in receiving the equipment, noting the importance of such support from the Ministry of Industry, the Biak Numfor Regency Government, and the Department of Industry and Trade. He also emphasized the comprehensive support provided, including training in fish management and business management guidance. The group aims to use this assistance to develop new products and achieve economic independence and prosperity. Yubelius Usior, Head of the Biak Numfor Department of Industry and Trade, hopes that the fisheries management training will yield tangible economic benefits for the local community.
