Bin Soren Gallery Strengthens Raja Ampat’s Creative Economy
Raja Ampat Kartininews.com – The Raja Ampat Regency Government continues to strengthen community-based conservation and local product economies through the inauguration of the “Bin Soren” Conservation Gallery by BLUD UPTD KKP Kepulauan Raja Ampat on Saturday (9/5/2026). The presence of this gallery is part of the region’s innovation to support the promotion, marketing, and development of creative businesses for coastal communities, particularly women’s groups and small entrepreneurs in conservation areas.
The inauguration of the gallery, which coincided with the 23rd anniversary of Raja Ampat Regency, is expected to serve as a hub to strengthen the local economy while increasing the competitiveness of Raja Ampat’s local products in broader markets.
The name “Bin Soren” carries a philosophical meaning derived from two languages of major tribes in Raja Ampat. The word “Bin” in the Biak language means woman, while “Soren” in the Maya language means ocean. Literally, Bin Soren is interpreted as “Woman of the Sea,” symbolizing the important role of women in maintaining marine sustainability while driving family and community economies.
Raja Ampat Regent Orideko Iriano Burdam welcomed the establishment of the Bin Soren Gallery as a concrete step in promoting inclusive and sustainable regional economic growth.
“What we hope for is the birth of innovations like this. With directed efforts, various sectors can move together. While other regions have thriving souvenir centers, in Raja Ampat we want the Conservation Gallery to become a growing community economic space that provides wide benefits,” said Orideko.
He added that strengthening local products is an important part of regional development, especially in creating new economic opportunities for the community amid the growth of Raja Ampat’s tourism sector.
“Raja Ampat should not only be known for its natural beauty, but also for its local products and the creativity of its people, which can directly impact the economy,” he said.
Meanwhile, Head of BLUD UPTD KKP Kepulauan Raja Ampat, Hasan Makassar, said the gallery is not only a place to sell products but also a center for community economic activities in the conservation area.
“We established this gallery to help the community expand market access, streamline the distribution of local products, and create a space for developing coastal community businesses, especially for mothers and artisan groups,” Hasan said.
He added that most of the products being marketed are handmade crafts and creative works by local communities, which have long needed a proper promotional platform.
“Moving forward, we want Raja Ampat’s local products to rise in class, have a strong identity, and become part of strengthening conservation-based community economies,” he said.
The Bin Soren Conservation Gallery is expected to develop into a creative economy hub based on conservation, while strengthening local cultural identity and supporting environmental sustainability in Raja Ampat.
