JAYAPURA – Papua Governor Matius D. Fakhiri has urged Bank Mandiri to pay greater attention to the many small traders operating on the outskirts of Jayapura City and surrounding areas, especially Papuan women who need support to develop their micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“I would like to request your support, as there are still many mama-mama Papuans selling by the roadside who should be included in activities like this,” he said.

Fakhiri emphasized that the involvement of all parties is essential to uplift small traders. “If not us, who will help them—the Papuan women traders—then who else? Therefore, include them in every activity,” he added.

The governor also stated that the 2025 Livin’ Fest aligns with the broader vision of the Papua Provincial Government: The New Papua Transformation for Progress and Harmony. He noted that Livin’ Fest reflects concrete synergy among the government, business sector, and community, bringing renewed energy to development efforts.

“The presence of Bank Mandiri is a tangible form of support for strengthening the people's economy and is in line with the Productive Papua vision, which encourages innovation in local products,” he said.

Beyond economic empowerment, Governor Fakhiri highlighted that the festival also serves as a platform to educate the public on various financial services, such as Mandiri KPR (home financing), Mandiri Auto, MSME financing, and digital transactions through the Livin’ by Mandiri app.

“This digital transformation is aligned with the Smart Papua mission, which promotes financial literacy and digital readiness,” he continued.

He added that this event is a concrete step toward realizing effective and responsive governance that addresses the needs of the community. ***