Strengthening MSMEs, Malang City Launches Sahabat MSME

Acting Mayor of Malang Dr. Ir. Wahyu Hidayat, MM,m after launching 'Sahabat UMKM' hopes that with this program, UMKM players can move up a class, penetrate the global market and be more competitive. "All problems faced by UMKM such as those related to capital, brands and marketing, will be assisted as much as possible," he said.

In addition, the number one person in the Malang City Government said that Sahabat UMKM will also seek and accommodate residents who are just starting a business, so that they can be trained and assisted to become strong and competitive UMKM actors. "Currently, there are around 21 thousand UMKM that have been curated, and over time it will definitely continue to grow," added Wahyu.

Another reason why this program was launched is because MSMEs are the biggest pillars of the community's economy, and have proven to be resilient and not so affected when the economy contracts. As was the case during the Covid-19 Pandemic some time ago, MSMEs were barely affected and were still able to survive.

"Several times I came directly to the UMKM actors to make sure of this, and the results were indeed so. So in the future various programs will be rolled out to continue to strengthen the existence of these UMKM actors, both directly and indirectly. Such as intensifying training, helping with brand management and marketing," he explained.

He further said that later various elements, such as village heads and sub-district heads will play an active role. For those who experience obstacles in running their businesses, they will be helped as optimally as possible. "With integrated togetherness, we are optimistic that what we have planned will be realized well," concluded Wahyu.