RRI.CO.ID, Bekasi - The Bekasi Regency Government strengthened the role of cooperatives in supporting community-based economic growth and small businesses. The commitment was highlighted during the 79th National Cooperative Day celebration in Cikarang Utara, Bekasi Regency, West Java, on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

Acting Bekasi Regent, Asep Surya Atmaja, appreciated cooperative members for their contributions to regional economic development. He said cooperatives play an important role in creating business opportunities and improving community welfare.

"On behalf of the Bekasi Regency Government, I would like to congratulate all cooperative members on the 79th National Cooperative Day. Hopefully, this momentum will strengthen our spirit to build advanced, professional, independent cooperatives that can drive the people's economy, especially in Bekasi Regency," he said.

Asep said well-managed cooperatives can create stronger businesses, provide employment opportunities, and support inclusive and sustainable economic growth. He emphasized that the local government would continue supporting cooperative development and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

The Bekasi Regency Government aims to strengthen cooperative institutions and improve SME competitiveness amid changing economic conditions. The National Cooperative Day celebration also featured a healthy walk, SME bazaar, charity activities, children's coloring competition, and public entertainment.

Chairman of the Bekasi Regional Indonesian Cooperative Council, Toto Iskandar, said the event helped bring cooperatives closer to the community. He explained that the activities involved families, SME actors, children, and the wider public to encourage greater awareness of cooperative benefits.

"Through these activities, we want to show that cooperatives belong to the community. We hope the cooperative spirit will continue to grow and more people can experience its benefits," Toto said.

The SME bazaar provided promotional opportunities for local business owners to introduce their products to the public. Toto hoped cooperatives in Bekasi would continue innovating to improve members' welfare and support regional economic development.

During the event, Cinity and Dekopinda Bekasi Regency signed a joint commitment to support cooperatives and SME empowerment. Founder of Cinity H. Asmat Amin said the celebration reflected strong public enthusiasm for the cooperative movement.

Through stronger cooperation between government, cooperatives, and local businesses, Bekasi Regency aims to develop an inclusive economic ecosystem. The initiative highlights the role of community-based economic institutions in supporting sustainable regional growth.