JAKARTA – The Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT), Yandri Susanto, stated that the Indonesia-China bilateral relationship is expected to become a strategic instrument for alleviating disadvantaged regions through enhanced economic welfare, job creation, and knowledge exchange.

According to him, this international relationship is not merely about providing social assistance but focuses on a new paradigm of community empowerment and capacity building to address challenges, particularly those faced in disadvantaged areas.

"This meeting is expected to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Indonesia and China in the fields of rural development and poverty alleviation, as well as ensure the smooth implementation of programs planned for 2026," said Minister Yandri during an audience with the Chinese Ambassador to Indonesia, Wang Lutong, at the Ministry's office in Kalibata, South Jakarta, Wednesday (April 15, 2026).

Furthermore, Minister Yandri emphasized the importance of updating ministerial cooperation agreements amidst government dynamics, particularly during adjustments to names, nomenclatures, or organizational structures. This includes the transition from the Ministry of Villages, Development of Disadvantaged Regions, and Transmigration to the current Ministry of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions.

He noted that the nomenclature adjustment needs to be addressed soon to improve bureaucratic effectiveness, optimize resources, and strengthen inter-institutional coordination.

"A technical issue that needs to be discussed is the amendment regarding the change in ministerial nomenclature, which is suggested to be carried out alongside the discussion on the extension of the MSP (Memorandum of Strategic Partnership) validity period," Minister Yandri explained.

In addition, Minister Yandri highlighted that the preparation of a concrete work plan is vital as a measurable roadmap to ensure smooth operations and guarantee the achievement of targets expected by both parties.

This includes actualizing the "12 Actions to Build Villages" initiated by the Ministry, which features programs such as Thematic Villages, Export Villages, and Tourism Villages. These programs are essential for optimizing local potential to enhance community welfare sustainably and drive national economic growth from the village level.

"On the other hand, the preparation of derivative documents in the form of a Plan of Action will serve as the basis for more concrete implementation. We have the '12 Actions to Build Villages,' which include Export Villages and Tourism Villages," he concluded.

In attendance at the meeting were the Vice Minister (Wamendes), Ariza Patria; Secretary-General Taufik Madjid; Director General of PEID, Tabrani; Head of BPSDM, Agustomi Masik; and Special Staff to the Minister, M. Fahad Attamimi.

Foto: Dani/Kemendes PDT 
Teks: Dayat/Kemendes PDT