Minister to Promote Micro and Small Jamu Businesses

Jakarta (Antara Bali) - The government will strive to leverage the Indonesian herbal and traditional medicine (jamu) by encouraging the small and micro business sector, Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Minister A.A.G.N. Puspayoga stated here on Friday.

         "We will provide encouragement through a variety of efforts, such as facilitating the provision of Small and Micro Business License (IUMK) for entrepreneurs," said Puspayoga.

         The IUMK, as set forth in the regulation, is granted to SMEs that meet the requirements determined by the regional government based on the regulation of the home minister.

         The IUMK helps micro enterprises to get exemptions from fees, charges, and/or other levies, while small businesses are provided relief in the form of no extra charges, fees, and/or other charges.

         "We have coordinated with cross-sectoral institutions to encourage the growth of jamu SMEs," he stated.

         In addition to the IUMK, the ministry will also initiate a campaign to increase people awareness regarding the benefits of consuming jamu.

         According to Puspayoga, the Minister of Industry, Minister of Trade, Minister of Tourism, Minister of Agriculture, Minister of Health, and Minister of Agrarian and Spatial Planning launched the jamu drinking movement.

         To ensure the implementation of this policy, a presidential decree (Perpres 98 Tentang IUMK) commissioned the home minister to coordinate the implementation of IUMK with the other ministries, government agencies, local governments, and NGOs.

         In the meantime, the governor's responsibility is to provide guidance and supervision regarding IUMK to the regent or mayor. (WDY)