Analysis of The Merah Putih Village Cooperative Program: an Effort to Enhance Food Security and Village Economy

Abstract

The Merah Putih Village Cooperative is a policy initiated by the government through Presidential Instruction No. 9 of 2025. Village cooperatives were established to boost the people's economy and food security at the grassroots level, specifically in villages. This study aims to analyze the potential of the Merah Putih Village Cooperative in fostering food security and the village economy, as well as the challenges involved in implementing this policy. This study employs a descriptive qualitative method using purposive sampling to collect data. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with relevant government agencies and thoroughly reviewed documents regarding the Merah Putih Village Cooperative. The research findings indicate that the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives possess significant potential in efforts to enhance food security and the village economy as a means of reducing poverty. This potential stems from the business units established and structured in such a way. In Cirebon Regency alone, there are currently only 20 active village cooperatives out of a total of 424 village cooperatives that have established organizational management structures. The low number of active village cooperatives is due to the uneven progress of building construction. Additionally, the lack of initiative among the management of the Merah Putih Village Cooperatives in implementing programs poses a significant challenge to the implementation of this village cooperative policy. Therefore, efforts to accelerate development and raise awareness about village cooperatives must be more consistent so that this program can be implemented promptly.