New Sorong Markets Empower Indigenous Papuan Small Traders

RRI.CO.ID, Sorong - The Southwest Papua Provincial Administration has inaugurated two dedicated marketplaces in Sorong City specifically designed for Indigenous Papuan (OAP) traders. Funded by the Special Autonomy (Otsus) budget, these facilities aim to transition local vendors, particularly the "Mama-Mama Papua", from makeshift roadside stalls to modern, representative trading hubs.

"Because this is funded by Otsus, the beneficiaries are the OAP," remarked West Papua South West Governor, Elisa Kambu, following the inauguration at Jalan Menur, Klademak 3, on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

He emphasized that these markets are a core component of the province's program to upgrade trade infrastructure. The two sites are strategically located, one sits in the economic heart of Sorong near Ramayana Mall, while the second serves the Jalan Arteri area in Malanu.

As reported by Antara, the new facilities are expected to provide a much-needed boost to the local economy by providing a dignified space for vendors who previously occupied city sidewalks. "With these markets, Mama-Mama Papua will no longer sell their wares on the roadside," noted the Governor.

Head of the Provincial Cooperatives and Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) Agency, Sellvyana Sangkek, described the project as a major step forward for the region's development vision. While essential services like electricity and sanitation are already in place, she confirmed that further facilities would be added incrementally.

"The public is very enthusiastic. Moving forward, traders will be directed away from the fronts of shops and malls and into these prepared market spaces," she explained.

To ensure the long-term viability of the sites, the provincial administration plans to schedule weekly visits from high-ranking officials every weekend to drive foot traffic and demonstrate ongoing support for local economic activity. While the Jalan Menur site currently accommodates up to 30 vendors, the provincial administration is already looking toward the future.

Plans are underway to replicate this model in other regencies and border areas, ensuring that market locations are optimized for both producer potential and consumer reach. ***