WEST LOMBOK – The Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT), Yandri Susanto, reviewed the Village Potential Exhibition as part of the 68th Anniversary of West Lombok, Friday (April 17, 2026). Held at the Bencingah Agung, West Lombok Regent’s Office, the exhibition carried the theme "Prosperous from the Village" (Sejahtera dari Desa).

The products and services on display included superior commodities such as food crops, horticulture, livestock, and fisheries, showcasing the rich natural resources of West Lombok. Minister Yandri stated that these potentials would receive full cross-sectoral government support as part of the effort to realize "Indonesia Emas 2045" (Golden Indonesia 2045) through the maximized utilization of natural wealth.

"We will support and provide assistance; all village potentials will be developed. God willing, we will implement everything using a village-potential approach," said Minister Yandri.

The focus on building from the villages is highly intentional. Since a significant portion of Indonesia's territory consists of villages, the standard for successful development is reflected in the condition of the villages and the welfare of their residents.

"It is impossible for Indonesia to shine if its villages are in the dark. If we want to build Indonesia, we must build the villages. If we want Indonesia to advance, we must advance the villages and prosper its people. As the Minister says: build the village to build Indonesia; the village is the frontline of the nation," said Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan.

The government's seriousness in prioritizing village development is also evident in the policy requiring Nutrition Fulfillment Service Units (SPPG) to meet their daily supply needs through Village-Owned Enterprises (BUMDesa) or Merah Putih Village Cooperatives (KDMP), rather than modern retailers whose profits benefit only specific parties. Therefore, it is crucial for villages to prepare by developing their local potential into Thematic Villages.

"SPPG must source their goods from the village, whether through Cooperatives or BUMDesa. The governance and regulations are already in place. SPPG must no longer be supplied by conglomerates; only Cooperatives and BUMDesa are permitted to supply them. This way, the children are healthy, village businesses thrive, and the economy grows," emphasized Coordinating Minister Zulkifli Hasan.

As Minister Yandri has stressed on various occasions, villages must utilize their potential to participate in realizing government programs. This includes establishing dedicated villages such as Layer Hen Villages, Chili Villages, Corn Villages, Carrot Villages, and Potato Villages.

Foto: Andri/Kemendes PDT 
Teks: Ria/Kemendes PDT