Sumatra Barat military official denies claim that 'Merah Putih' cooperative building was built in an inaccessible place

The Agam Military District Commander (Dandim) in the Sumatera Barat region of Indonesia issued a stern response to some allegations circulating in the public regarding the nature and location of the Koperasi Desa (Kopdes) project named 'Merah Putih'. The statement emphasized that the information spreading that the cooperative building is located in an extremely isolated area and that access for the local population is very difficult does not reflect the truth, and that such news is incorrect. The military official stated that the main objective of the project is to serve the region's people and support economic development, and therefore, the construction process is being managed in a planned and accessible manner. It was pointed out that the emerging speculations might be attempts to tarnish the project's reputation, and authorities found it appropriate to clarify the situation with a denial.

It was conveyed that feasibility studies conducted in the Lubuk Basung region and the broader Agam area showed a need for construction at strategic points where society can benefit, rather than in points far from central settlements or with transportation problems. Dandim 03/04 Agam recalled that the military unit in the region has a duty not only for security but also to support projects in cooperation with civil society development and local governments. It was proven with technical data that the 'Merah Putih' cooperative building was chosen at a point where citizens from surrounding villages and towns could easily come to meet their daily needs or engage in commercial activities. In this way, it was explained that the aim is to pave the way for the more active participation of citizens living in rural areas in economic life, and the project was prepared with this vision.

It was stated that the 'non-isolated' approach subject to the claims is directly related to the current state of infrastructure works and transportation networks in the region, and that it would be illogical for the building to be in a place completely closed to access. In the statement made by the authorized official, it was suggested that the necessary materials and teams were easily transported during the construction phase, which is the most concrete evidence of how suitable the building's location is. In addition, it was stated that the project is not just about constructing a building, but is also designed as a center that will bring vitality to the socio-economic life of the region, and therefore no compromise was made on accessibility. It was expressed in clear terms that for citizens to trust and use the cooperative, the location must be transparent and known to everyone, and therefore the speculations are contrary to reality.

It was noted that during meetings and inspections, information was also given to press members and local civil society organizations, and that the project is in compliance with local government plans as well as military supervision. Dandim explained that, in line with the principle of transparency, he responded positively to the requests of citizens wondering about the exact location and transportation routes of the building, thus showing that the perception of it being in an 'abandoned' or 'far from lights' place is wrong. It was expressed that logistical difficulties experienced in similar projects in the past did not occur in this project, and that modern transportation facilities suitable for the geographical structure of the region were used. It was emphasized that the economic vitality the local population will bring to the area after the cooperative building becomes operational will be the most effective factor in preventing such misleading news.

As a result, the statement made by the military official was used as an opportunity to refute the misleading news circulating about the cooperative building named 'Merah Putih', and it was reconfirmed that the project is of great importance for national interests and regional development. Citizens were called upon to be careful about news they hear from social media or unofficial sources and to follow official announcements for accurate information. It was promised that developments in the region will continue with an understanding of transparency and favoring the public, and that the contributions to the regional economy will be seen by everyone once the cooperative building is completed.