Ministry Of Finance Disburses Rp18.6 Billion To 2,954 Ultra Micro Businesses In East Kalimantan

Ria Sartika    Saturday, April 04, 2026    Comment   

Ministry Of Finance Disburses Rp18.6 Billion To 2,954 Ultra Micro Businesses In East Kalimantan

Ministry of Finance disburses Rp18.6 billion in UMi funding to 2,954 micro businesses in East Kalimantan to boost growth and economic resilience in early 2026. (Illustration image)

Samarinda – The Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu) continues to strengthen Indonesia’s grassroots economy by distributing Ultra Micro (UMi) financing. From January to February 2026, a total of Rp18.6 billion was channeled to 2,954 ultra micro business owners across East Kalimantan.

Head of the Regional Office of the Directorate General of Treasury (DJPb) East Kalimantan, Tjahjo Purnomo, said the program aims to enhance business capacity while encouraging economic independence among small entrepreneurs.

“The UMi program makes it easier for business owners to access additional capital, allowing them to improve product quality and increase income,” Tjahjo said in Samarinda on Sunday.

More Than Just Funding: Business Mentorship Included

Notably, the UMi program goes beyond financial assistance. Beneficiaries also receive mentoring, training, and business development support.

This approach helps micro-entrepreneurs scale up their businesses while maintaining strong loan repayment performance.

In short, UMi is not just about funding—it is a long-term empowerment strategy.

Trade Sector Dominates Funding Distribution

Out of the total Rp18.6 billion distributed, the trade sector absorbed the largest share:

• Micro trade sector: Rp17.84 billion (2,883 borrowers)

• Accommodation & food services: Rp200 million (20 businesses)

• Manufacturing sector: Rp180 million (15 businesses)

The dominance of the trade sector reflects its simple business model, fast cash flow, and relatively small capital requirements.

“High economic activity in small-scale businesses such as food stalls, agricultural trading, and home industries continues to drive demand for micro financing,” Tjahjo explained.

Kutai Kartanegara Records Highest Absorption

Among the 10 districts/cities in East Kalimantan, the highest UMi distribution was recorded in:

1. Kutai Kartanegara: Rp4.15 billion

2. Samarinda: Rp3.61 billion

3. Balikpapan: Rp3.43 billion

4. North Penajam Paser: Rp2.85 billion

5. Paser: Rp1.63 billion

Tjahjo noted that Kutai Kartanegara leads due to the large number of ultra micro businesses spread across villages and sub-districts.

Strengthening Local Economic Resilience

The UMi program plays a crucial role in strengthening local economies, especially for communities with limited access to formal banking services.

With easier access to capital and continuous mentorship, small businesses are expected to grow, increase income, and create new job opportunities.

FAQ

1. What is UMi financing?
UMi (Ultra Micro) financing is a government program designed to support small businesses that are not yet bankable.

2. How much funding was distributed in East Kalimantan?
A total of Rp18.6 billion during January–February 2026.

3. How many beneficiaries received the funding?
2,954 ultra micro business owners.

4. Is UMi only financial assistance?
No. It also includes training, mentoring, and business development programs.

5. Which sector received the most funding?
The micro trade sector.

Mahulu Records 5.11 Percent Economic Growth Driven By Key Sectors

Ria Sartika    Tuesday, March 31, 2026    Comment   

Mahulu Records 5.11 Percent Economic Growth Driven By Key Sectors

Mahakam Ulu economy grows 5.11 percent in 2025, driven by agriculture, infrastructure, transportation, and rising investment performance.

The economy of Mahakam Ulu (Mahulu), East Kalimantan, showed strong performance throughout 2025, recording an economic growth rate of 5.11 percent—well above the initial target of 3.5 percent.

Regent Angela Idang Belawan stated that the achievement reflects a clear improvement compared to the previous year.

“Our regional economic growth reached 5.11 percent, exceeding the target that had been set,” she said in Ujoh Bilang on Monday.

Four Key Sectors Driving Growth

Mahulu’s economic performance was primarily supported by four leading sectors: agriculture, basic infrastructure, transportation, and investment.

The agriculture, plantation, and fisheries sector remains a cornerstone of the local economy. It covers food crop cultivation, plantations, and fisheries, all of which are strategic priorities for strengthening food security and economic independence.

Meanwhile, basic infrastructure development played a significant role. In 2025, the government allocated more than 40 percent of its budget to infrastructure, accelerating economic activities across the region.

The transportation and warehousing sector also contributed as a supporting pillar, particularly in improving regional connectivity and boosting local revenue streams.

Investment Reaches Rp497 Billion

From an investment standpoint, Mahulu recorded a notable increase in both domestic investment (PMDN) and foreign direct investment (PMA), reaching a total realization of approximately Rp497 billion in 2025.

This growth indicates rising investor confidence in the region’s economic potential, including natural resources and development prospects.

Budget Realization And Fiscal Performance

In the 2025 Budget Accountability Report (LKPj), the regional government reported total revenue realization of Rp1.9 trillion, or 85.21 percent of the Rp2.2 trillion target.

On the expenditure side, spending reached Rp2.4 trillion out of the allocated Rp2.9 trillion, equivalent to 81.74 percent, supporting various strategic development programs.

Social Indicators Show Improvement

Beyond economic growth, social welfare indicators also improved. The poverty rate declined to 10.09 percent, lower than the target of 10.5 percent.

The Human Development Index (HDI) reached 71.53, surpassing the target of 70.48, reflecting improvements in education, healthcare, and overall quality of life.

Infrastructure And Environment Remain Strong

Progress was also evident in infrastructure and basic services, including better road conditions, improved access to clean water, and an increase in livable housing.

Environmental quality remained well maintained, with an index score of 86.62, indicating that air quality, water resources, and ecological sustainability are still in good condition.

“This shows that development in Mahulu is progressing in balance between economic growth and environmental preservation,” Angela added.

FAQ

1. What is Mahakam Ulu’s economic growth in 2025?
Mahakam Ulu recorded economic growth of 5.11 percent, exceeding its 3.5 percent target.

2. What sectors drive Mahulu’s economy?
The main sectors are agriculture, infrastructure, transportation, and investment.

3. How much investment was realized in Mahulu?
Total investment reached approximately Rp497 billion in 2025.

4. Has poverty decreased in Mahulu?
Yes, the poverty rate declined to 10.09 percent.

5. How is the environmental condition in Mahulu?
The environmental quality index reached 86.62, indicating well-preserved conditions.

Prabowo And Ray Dalio Discuss Indonesia’s Economy And Danantara Strategy

Ria Sartika    Friday, March 27, 2026    Comment   

Prabowo And Ray Dalio Discuss Indonesia’s Economy And Danantara Strategy

Prabowo and Ray Dalio discuss Indonesia’s economic outlook and strengthening Danantara to attract foreign investors and accelerate national economic growth.

Jakarta — Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto held a strategic meeting with global financial figure Ray Dalio at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Friday afternoon.

The meeting drew attention as both figures discussed Indonesia’s economic outlook and explored ways to strengthen the role of Danantara as a key driver of national economic growth.

According to an official statement shared by the Cabinet Secretariat’s Instagram account, the discussion focused on Indonesia’s economic prospects and efforts to optimize Danantara’s role as a strategic investment management body.

Focus On Strengthening Danantara

Danantara serves as Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund, established by President Prabowo in February 2025. The institution is designed to manage state assets, oversee strategic state-owned enterprises (SOEs), and attract global investment.

During the meeting, both sides explored strategies to enhance Danantara’s global competitiveness and improve investor confidence.

Several top officials were also present, including:

• Airlangga Hartarto

• Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa

• Rosan Roeslani

• Brian Yuliarto

• Prasetyo Hadi

• Teddy Indra Wijaya

Efforts To Attract Foreign Investors

Following the meeting, Finance Minister Purbaya stated that Ray Dalio is actively supporting Indonesia’s efforts to attract foreign investors by presenting several strategic proposals.

“He is helping us invite foreign investors with a number of proposals he presented,” Purbaya said.

Dalio is also expected to promote Indonesia on the global stage and help accelerate the realization of proposed investment projects.

This move is considered crucial in strengthening Indonesia’s position amid increasing global economic competition.

Energy Projects And Economic Zones Highlighted

The discussion also highlighted several priority sectors, including:

• Energy, particularly solar power plant (PLTS) development

• Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to boost investment appeal

• Collaborative projects involving investors from Singapore and domestic partners

The government also emphasized the need to accelerate delayed projects to ensure faster economic impact.

Strategic Steps To Boost Economic Growth

Purbaya noted that the government will address bottlenecks in strategic projects to ensure timely completion.

In addition, plans to establish a new Special Economic Zone are being considered to further enhance Indonesia’s investment attractiveness.

With support from global figures like Ray Dalio, the government remains optimistic that Indonesia can position itself as a leading investment destination in Asia.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. What is Danantara?
Danantara is Indonesia’s sovereign wealth fund that manages strategic investments and state assets.

2. What was the purpose of the meeting?
To discuss Indonesia’s economic outlook and strategies to attract foreign investment.

3. Which sectors were discussed?
Energy, Special Economic Zones, and strategic investment projects.

4. Are foreign investors involved?
Yes, including potential collaboration with investors from Singapore.

5. What is the expected impact?
Faster economic growth and increased global investor confidence.

Russia Faces Worker Shortage, Hiring Expands Across Asia

Ria Sartika    Sunday, February 08, 2026    Comment   

Russia Faces Worker Shortage, Hiring Expands Across Asia

Russia Faces Worker Shortage, Hiring Expands Across Asia. (Illustration Image)

Russia is in a tight spot right now—seriously short on workers. The ongoing war in Ukraine is hitting the labor market hard, and companies are scrambling to find talent. The shortage isn’t just local anymore; recruitment is now reaching countries across Asia.

Experts say Russia could need around 11 million more workers by the end of the decade to keep its economy running smoothly. That’s a massive gap, and businesses are feeling the pressure.

To fill the gap, Russia has been handing out work permits to foreign workers at record levels. For example, Indian workers got over 56,000 permits last year, up from just 5,000 in 2021. Overall, foreign work permits in Russia hit 240,000 in 2025—the highest in eight years. Clearly, the demand is real.

The Russian government is also making deals with Asian countries to make migration easier. During a recent visit to New Delhi, leaders discussed simplified processes for temporary workers. This lets more skilled workers from Asia enter Russia quickly and legally.

Why does this matter? A labor shortage can slow businesses, drive up prices, and create bottlenecks in public services. For workers, it’s a big opportunity to earn more and gain international experience—but it also means learning new work rules, culture, and legal rights.

For governments and companies, this is a wake-up call. Investing in local workforce skills, training, and clear regulations is key to preventing future shortages. Meanwhile, workers heading abroad need to adapt to new languages, cultures, and systems to succeed.

Bottom line: Russia’s labor crunch shows how globalized work has become. Countries that prepare smart workforce strategies will stay ahead, while those that don’t could face serious challenges.