Boosting Aceh's Economy, Coordinating Ministry Launches "1001 Nights Market"

The Coordinating Ministry for Community Empowerment (Kemenko PM) has launched the “1001 Nights Market” programme in Banda Aceh, Aceh. The event, running from 11-13 March 2026, represents more than a typical night market—it constitutes a substantial government strategy to activate hitherto unproductive state assets into new engines of economic growth in the region.

Leontinus Alpha Edison, Deputy for Community Economic Empowerment Coordination at Kemenko PM, explained that the programme functions as a catalyst for strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the creative economy. The primary strategy involves optimising “dormant assets” belonging to the government and state-owned enterprises to be converted into creative compounds with affordable rental costs for local business operators.

“The 1001 Nights Market is not merely an economic transaction hub, but rather a vehicle for humanitarian action and social solidarity,” stated Leontinus in a written statement released on Wednesday (11 March 2026).

Centred at the Baiturrahman Mosque Field, the event is structured with a strong Ramadan atmosphere. Beyond featuring bazaars, food stalls, and crafts, the government has also integrated a business formalisation strengthening programme through the “Rising SME Clinic”. This programme collaborates with the Aceh Provincial Government and Banda Aceh City Government to provide comprehensive business legalisation support.

Kemenko PM is also implementing social safety net programmes through various strategic assistance initiatives. During the event series, 103 temporary housing units—the result of collaboration with Rumah Zakat—were handed over, ready-to-eat food aid was distributed to flood survivors, and 1,000 Islamic texts were provided to pesantren (Islamic schools) in North Aceh and Tamiang Aceh regions.

Kemenko PM’s strategy also encompasses the provision of free healthcare services and a talent showcase as part of inclusive community empowerment. Modern concepts such as coffee trucks and interactive talk shows have been deliberately introduced to attract young people’s interest in independent entrepreneurship.

“Through solid synergy between government, private sector, and community, we are confident that dignified economic self-reliance can be realised,” said Leontinus.

This measure is expected to accelerate digitalisation and standardisation of SMEs in Aceh to strengthen their competitiveness at the national level.