The Indonesian government is planning a new initiative to involve former migrant workers in Red and White Village Cooperatives across the country. The plan is being coordinated between the Ministry of Cooperatives and the Ministry of Migrant Workers Protection. The goal is to give returning migrant workers a chance to use their skills to support economic development in their home communities.
Cooperatives Minister Ferry Juliantono explained that many Indonesians who work abroad gain valuable experience in business, technical skills, and international work culture. He believes that when they return home, these skills can help strengthen local cooperatives and small business activities. He encouraged former migrant workers to become active members of the cooperative structure in their villages.
Ferry also said that many returning workers have savings from working abroad. By investing this money into village cooperatives, they could help create stronger community businesses and generate long-term income. He added that this could also help reduce unemployment and strengthen productive economic activities in rural areas.
According to the minister, these cooperatives can act as a platform for former migrant workers to share knowledge with others in the community. He noted that their experience can help villages adopt better management methods and build a more organized business environment. This approach aims to make cooperatives not just financial centers, but also centers of learning and mentorship.
Why focus on former migrant workers?
Many former migrant workers return home with new skills and savings, but without support, they may struggle to use them effectively. By joining village cooperatives, they can invest their money productively, receive guidance, and contribute to local development.
Migrant Workers Protection Minister Mukhtarudin stated that many returning workers lack proper financial planning, which sometimes leads to their hard-earned money being spent quickly. He believes integrating them into village cooperatives will help them manage their finances better while contributing to the local economy. He described the cooperation between the ministries as a strategic move to expand empowerment programs.
Through this initiative, the government hopes to create economic opportunities at the village level and strengthen community cooperation. Both ministries agree that supporting returning migrant workers will benefit not only the individuals but also the wider community, helping villages grow stronger economically and socially.