Minister of Home Affairs (Mendagri) Muhammad Tito Karnavian emphasized the pivotal role of villages as economic engines in Indonesia during the 2024 Indonesia Village Congress held in Jakarta on Friday, March 22, 2024. He underscored that villages hold significant importance, aligning with President Jokowi's vision since 2014 to build from the peripheries, comprising villages and border areas. Tito revealed that presently, 43% of Indonesia's population resides in villages while 57% resides in urban areas. To prevent further rural exodus, concerted efforts are necessary to strengthen villages through various means. The government has enacted Law Number 6 of 2014 concerning Villages, recognizing the vital role of villages within the governmental framework. Villages are not merely communities but integral components of governance.

Furthermore, Tito highlighted the significance of the Village Fund as a pivotal step towards village advancement. This fund has significantly contributed to improving the quality of life in rural areas. Tito stressed the responsibility of village officials in utilizing these funds effectively, aiming for enhanced welfare among rural communities. He emphasized the government's principle of ensuring both the progress and welfare of villages and their constituents, including Village Consultative Body (BPD) members, comprising the village head, village officials, and BPD representatives. This underscores the holistic approach towards village development and welfare enhancement.

Source: https://channel9.id/mendagri-desa-bisa-menjadi-kekuatan-ekonomi-indonesia/