In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed a significant shift towards digital payment systems, with the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) at the forefront of this transformation. While urban centers like Jakarta and Surabaya have rapidly embraced QRIS, the easternmost province of Papua presents a unique and compelling case of digital adoption. This article delves into the factors driving the surge in QRIS usage in Papua, the challenges faced, and the broader implications for the region’s economic and social landscape.
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Understanding QRIS: A Brief Overview
QRIS, introduced by Bank Indonesia in collaboration with the Indonesian Payment System Association (ASPI), is a standardized QR code system designed to streamline digital payments across the country. By unifying various payment platforms under a single QR code, QRIS simplifies transactions for both merchants and consumers, promoting financial inclusion and reducing reliance on cash-based transactions.
QRIS in Papua
The adoption of the Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard (QRIS) in Papua has seen a significant surge, marking a transformative period for the province’s economy. As of March 2025, the number of merchants utilizing QRIS reached 230,446, with the highest concentration in Jayapura (131,691 merchants), followed by Merauke (21,822) and Mimika (19,403).
This growth is not limited to merchants. The number of QRIS users in Papua has climbed to 214,663, and the volume of transactions has reached 10.2 million. These figures indicate a significant shift towards digital payment systems in the region.
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Driving Factors Behind QRIS Adoption
Several initiatives have contributed to this rapid adoption. Bank Indonesia’s Papua branch has been proactive in promoting QRIS through various programs, including the “QRIS Sembako” initiative, which encouraged non-cash transactions for essential goods between August and October 2024. Additionally, events like the Festival Cenderawasih 2025 have played a pivotal role in raising awareness about QRIS. This festival, organized by Bank Indonesia, aimed to integrate QRIS into local economic activities, particularly among MSMEs and the tourism sector.
Impact on Local Economies
The integration of QRIS has empowered Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by reducing transaction costs, expanding their customer base, and providing access to financial services through digital transaction records. For the tourism sector, QRIS simplifies payments for tourists, promoting local products and enhancing the overall visitor experience.
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Challenges and Future Outlook
Despite the positive trajectory, challenges such as infrastructure gaps in rural areas and the need for increased digital literacy persist. Bank Indonesia continues to address these issues through community engagement and educational initiatives. The continued growth of QRIS in Papua hinges on strategic actions, including infrastructure development, educational programs, and collaborative efforts among stakeholders.
Papua’s journey towards digital financial inclusion through QRIS showcases the region’s adaptability and resilience. With ongoing efforts and the evident benefits of digital payments, Papua is poised to serve as a model for other regions aiming to embrace the digital economy.
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Conclusion
Papua’s journey towards digital financial inclusion through QRIS is a testament to the region’s adaptability and resilience. While challenges remain, the concerted efforts of stakeholders and the evident benefits of digital payments position Papua as a model for other regions seeking to embrace the digital economy. As QRIS continues to permeate various facets of daily life, it holds the promise of fostering economic growth, enhancing financial inclusion, and improving the overall quality of life for the people of Papua.
