The Acting Governor of Papua, M Ridwan Rumasukun, stated that the division into three new autonomous regions in West Papua has diversified the economic spectrum of West Papua.

Therefore, strategic and concerted efforts from all parties are needed to promote more diverse, stronger, and resilient sources of economic growth in Papua Province.

“The effort to encourage the performance of business actors, especially micro-businesses, is a manifestation of more inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” said Rumasukun at the Cenderawasih Festival 2024 held at the former Entrop Terminal.

Furthermore, Rumasukun emphasized the need to enhance digitalization amidst the increasing pace of technological development, enabling broader economic acceleration and reaching a wider population.

“Digital adoption supports a positive momentum for the business and tourism sectors to continue growing, backed by the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Papua,” he stated.

Rumasukun highlighted the importance of fostering awareness, enthusiasm, and the spirit of new economic growth. The Papua Provincial Government supports the Cenderawasih Festival 2024 as a tangible manifestation of synergy between stakeholders and business actors, promoting the development of MSMEs and the sharia economy, strengthening digitalization, and tourism development as new sources of economic growth.

“The Cenderawasih Festival represents the optimism of the community regarding Papua’s economy, thus raising awareness of the economic potential of Papua Province,” he said.

Additionally, Rumasukun noted that Papua’s economy recorded a growth of 17.49% (year-on-year) in the first quarter of 2024, the highest among other provinces nationwide. The annual inflation rate of Papua Province in April 2024 was 1.78% (year-on-year), the lowest among other provinces nationwide, boosting optimism about the economy in West Papua, especially Papua Province.

“Considering the global, national, and Papua economic developments, we need to strive to improve the quality of economic performance by supporting new sources of economic growth,” he concluded.