Padang, W Sumatra (ANTARA) - West Sumatra Governor Mahyeldi assessed that the Proud of Indonesian Products National Movement (Gernas BBI) is one of the efforts that can revive West Sumatra Province's economy after being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the opening of Gernas BBI in Bukittinggi City, West Sumatra, on Tuesday, Mahyeldi affirmed that the national movement that puts the spotlight on Indonesian-made products can help bolster micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises (MSMEs) that he deemed as the backbone of the economy.
"This program is very strategic in improving the economy of MSME players affected by COVID-19," Mahyeldi noted.
The opening of the West Sumatra Proud of Indonesian Products National Movement was held by the Financial Services Authority (OJK) and attended by Vice President Ma’ruf Amin.
Mahyeldi viewed Gernas BBI as a realization of strong synergy between all relevant stakeholders to grow MSMEs in West Sumatra.
According to Mahyeldi, the national movement is an endeavor to further increase the sense of pride in Indonesian products made by locals and SME actors.
Moreover, Mahyeldi said, one of the points in the West Sumatra Medium-Term Development Plan for the 2020-2024 period is to produce 100 thousand new entrepreneurs and improve access to banking finance for MSME players.
"In addition, we are increasing the capacity of SMEs and developing information technology for digital business development," he stated.
Gernas BBI, under the Coordinating Ministry for Maritime Affairs and Investment, was launched in 2020 and is regularly implemented in different provinces since 2021.
Related news: Vice President Amin launches 'Gernas BBI' in West Sumatra
Several activities in the West Sumatra Gernas BBI are also diverse, starting from the grand opening held on April 12, 2022, in Bukittinggi.
There are also showcases and bazaars, podcasts, live shopping, auctions, and donations. Moreover, Muslim fashion shows as well as business matching and mentoring are parts of the event series.
The West Sumatra Gernas BBI will come to a close in June 2022.
Related news: OJK targets US$1 million of e-commerce transactions at Gernas BBI
