JAKARTA – The Minister of Villages and Development of Disadvantaged Regions (Mendes PDT), Yandri Susanto, has called for the maximum utilization of digitalization to promote local products, particularly to expand market reach to national and international levels.

According to him, creative digital content can automatically increase brand trust and recognition, even for small-scale businesses.

"I frequently emphasize that digitalization is vital. For instance, through social media, people from outside the region—and even from abroad—can discover our products or works if they are presented attractively," explained Minister Yandri while receiving an audience from the Regent of Tanggamus, Lampung, Moh. Saleh Asnawi, in West Jakarta, Wednesday (April 1, 2026).

The Minister added that synergy between the central and regional governments is crucial for accelerating strategic projects, fulfilling infrastructure needs, and maximizing regional economic targets.

Through direct audiences and coordination, regents can advocate for their region's needs to receive priority from relevant ministries, particularly regarding funding and technical support.

"I have heard his speeches several times on social media, such as TikTok. His vision and mission are excellent, and I believe Regents like this deserve our support. In building infrastructure, the most important aspect is the marketing," noted Minister Yandri.

Furthermore, Minister Yandri requested the Tanggamus Regent to begin identifying and preparing accurate data regarding the potential of each village, covering the sectors of agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. This data will assist the central government in formulating targeted and sustainable development policies and regulations.

"The Regent likely has data on which villages are thematic, tourism-based, or focused on horticulture. We also have the BUM Desa Export Village program. Based on that data, we can determine which villages to prioritize for assistance," he concluded.

Accompanying Minister Yandri on the occasion were the Director General of PEID, Tabrani; Head of BPSDM, Agustomi Masik; Head of BPI, Mulyadin Malik; and Special Staff to the Minister, Khoirul Huda and M. Afif Zamroni.

Foto: Wening/Kemendes PDT 
Teks: Dayat/Kemendes PDT