On the 16th December 2014, the Rector of Tarumanagara University (UNTAR), Prof. Ir. Roesdiman Soegiarso, M.Sc., Ph.D., and the Regency Head of East Belitung (Beltim) Basuri T. Purnama signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding cooperation for the Development of Beltim District. This MoU serves as a follow up and continuation from the previous agreement that was signed between the two parties in 2012.

The scope of the MoU will specifically focus on a previously implemented development program for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) entitled ‘Capital Strengthening Program for Cooperatives, Micro and Small Enterprises’. The planned project budget will cover a monitoring and evaluation program on the previously distributed capital which was provided from 2008 to 2014 to SMEs. In addition to the provision of funds, the scope of the project also encompasses UNTAR’s role in educating business owners on matters related to business management and marketing for the effective utilisation of the loans offered under the scheme.

The Head of the Department of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives of Beltim District, Suranto Wibowo expressed his hope at the signing ceremony that the continuing of the MoU will facilitate the opportunity to analyse the success of the initiative in offering loans to SMEs and cooperatives. Professor Soegiarso emphasized the need to assess the impact on the GDP of the regency in order to gain insights and to ensure the sustainability of the project given its importance for the next generation. To achieve this, it is planned that the MoU will extend to also cover professionalization among human resources within its educational scope given that this is crucial for future businesses to thrive.