UGM Expedition holds Kembara Exhibition to boost Merauke economy

The Universitas Gadjah Mada Patriot Expedition Team (TEP UGM) PS014 organized the Kembara Exhibition at the Mandekman Village Hall in the Ulilin District, Merauke Regency, on October 31, 2026. The event served as a platform to showcase innovative micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) products developed through the Empowered Community Institutions Program (Kembara).

Various community organizations participated in the exhibition, including Muslimat, PKK, Farmer Groups (Gapoktan), Catholic Church groups, and the Al Munawwaroh Mandekman Islamic Boarding School. This involvement aims to expand community participation in business development based on local potential within the Muting Transmigration Area.

M. Yusril Mirza, Vice Chairman and Field Coordinator of TEP UGM PS014, stated that community institutions have the potential to drive economic progress. He noted that while these groups have previously operated conventionally or appeared inactive in economic development, proper facilitation and mentoring through programs like Kembara can transform them into key drivers of economic growth in transmigration areas.