Cooperative Minister Officially Launches Operations of Merah Putih Village Cooperative in Atuka, Central Papua's Mimika Regency

Cooperative Minister Ferry Juliantono inaugurated the Merah Putih Village/Urban Ward Cooperative in Atuka village, Mimika Regency, Central Papua. Ferry assured that the government is providing support and guidance to the people.

The inauguration of the village cooperative took place today, Thursday (9/4/2026). Attendees included, among others, Deputy Governor of Central Papua Deinas Geley, Mimika Regent Johannes Rettob, Chairman of the Mimika Regency DPRD Emanuel Kemong, Head of the Mimika Regency Cooperative Service Samuel Yogi, and member of the Papua Otsus Acceleration Committee Ari Sihasale.

In his speech, Ferry stated that the inauguration of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative in Atuka village is an important step to strengthen the community’s economy.

“The government is present to provide support, guidance, and access to financing, while the cooperative is expected to be managed and utilised directly by the residents,” he said.

Ferry encouraged Mimika to become a model for village cooperative development at the Papua level.

According to Antara, Mimika Regency has formed 152 Merah Putih Village Cooperatives spread across 152 villages and 18 districts in Mimika. The formed cooperatives already have legal entities (notarial deeds) and management structures, and are awaiting funding from the central government for operations.

The Merah Putih Village Cooperative programme was launched in Mimika on 17 July 2025 by Mimika Regent Johannes Rettob.