BRILink Agent John Drives Border Community Economy Between Indonesia and Papua New Guinea

In the Indonesia-Papua New Guinea border region, specifically in Sota, a district of Merauke Regency in South Papua, financial access plays a critical role in supporting community activities. As one of Indonesia’s frontline areas, BRI’s BRILink agents extend banking services, bringing financial access closer and stimulating local economic growth.

The presence of BRILink agents is increasingly relevant as Sota residents face difficulties accessing Merauke city centre, located 100 kilometres away with costly travel requirements, necessitating accessible financial services.

As a border community member and BRI loan customer, John Al Bugis recognised the urgent need for nearby financial services in Sota. In 2021, he became a BRILink agent to provide more convenient banking services for locals.

“I opened BRILink because I live in a border area. The community here desperately needs financial services due to the 100-kilometre distance to Merauke city,” John said.

Over five years as a BRILink agent, he has witnessed tangible benefits for the community. His service allows residents to easily perform basic transactions such as cash deposits, withdrawals, transfers, and daily payments.

“This convenience is vital as it keeps economic activities running without long journeys to the city centre. For me, the most meaningful moments are when many in the community—local residents, small business owners, service sector workers, and border area personnel—benefit from these services,” he said.

Guidance and education from BRILink officers have helped John develop his agent business. The venture has not only improved his family’s finances but also enabled him to contribute more broadly to the community. From Sota, he drives local economic development through banking services reaching Indonesia’s frontier.