PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Bandung City Government has launched an innovative program "Social Economy Development in the Braga Tourism Area". This program aims to activate and develop the socio-economic potential in the Kampung Braga tourism area.

This program will not only strengthen the tourism appeal of the Braga area, but also empower local communities to take an active role in local economic development.

Head of the Bandung City Social Service, Soni Bakhtiar, expressed the importance of collaboration between the government, business world, and the community in achieving the goals of this program.

"We don't want Braga residents to just be spectators. They have to be part of this change, so they can enjoy the benefits directly," said Soni on Jalan Braga, Bandung City, Friday (16/8/2024).

According to Soni, the "Social Economy Development in the Braga Tourism Area" program is focused on empowering Braga residents by providing space and support for those who want to start a business or develop an existing business.

"This initiative also includes increasing the capacity of residents in doing business. Including management training, marketing, and product development," he explained.

Soni said that one of the efforts to attract tourists is to create new icons in the Braga area, such as the Selasar Menyala and Jembatan Menyala.

"Both facilities will feature a glow-in-the-dark effect at night, which is expected to be a new attraction for tourists who want to take pictures or selfies. In addition, the government is also working with universities such as Unpas and Binus to introduce the history of Braga through artistic murals," added Soni.

Through this program, said Soni, a spirit of mutual cooperation has grown among Braga residents.

"The government also provides business assistance by involving competent consultants to help residents manage their businesses more professionally," he said.

According to him, community business institutions managed by local residents will be the key to the sustainability of this program, with the principle of from, by, and for the community.

The hope is that Braga residents will become more empowered and independent, so that they no longer depend on government assistance such as the Family Hope Program (PKH) or Non-Cash Food Assistance (BPNT).

"Through this empowerment, we hope that Braga residents will be able to be economically independent and continue to develop together," said Soni. (Bandung City Communication and Information Service/Revo)