PALMOILMAGAZINE, PONTIANAK — After a 12-hour journey from Sengkuang Merabung Village, Ketapang Regency, four local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) proudly joined the 6th anniversary celebration of the Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI) West Kalimantan in Pontianak. Their participation underscored the vital role of MSMEs in bridging rural communities with broader markets while serving as pillars of local economic resilience.
Among the event’s highlights were booths managed by MSMEs fostered by PT Bangun Nusa Mandiri and PT Kencana Graha Permai, subsidiaries of Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food. From “Silele” catfish-based products to handwoven palm midrib crafts, these enterprises showcased stories of perseverance, creativity, and sustainability.
Silele, pioneered by women in Sengkuang Merabung and Biku Sarana villages under the leadership of Lili Yen, offers a range of products such as catfish broth, catfish sticks, and catfish meatballs. “These products provide consumers with affordable, nutritious choices rich in protein, while also supporting efforts to reduce stunting,” explained Sofie Chaniago, CSR facilitator at PT Bangun Nusa Mandiri.
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Meanwhile, artisan Lusiana captivated visitors by demonstrating how discarded palm midribs can be transformed into decorative plates, cutlery holders, and baskets. “During the dry season, I have to be extra careful because the palm midribs can darken,” she said. Despite marketing challenges, her crafts have gained recognition and even attracted orders beyond the region, thanks to training and promotional support from PT Kencana Graha Permai.
According to Eko Kuswoyo, Estate Manager of PT Bangun Nusa Mandiri, the initiative has delivered tangible benefits. “Catfish farming and its processed products have already reached district and provincial markets. Through CSR collaboration, we are strengthening the local economy,” he noted. These MSMEs are part of the Bright Future Initiative, a Sinar Mas program that has empowered over 100 MSMEs and developed nearly 200 projects across its operational areas.
Other local specialties, such as tempoyak (fermented durian) and kelulut honey, were also presented by PT Agrolestari Mandiri. West Kalimantan Deputy Governor Ria Norsan, who attended the celebration, praised the initiative. “I fully support Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food’s efforts to empower MSMEs in Ketapang. Hopefully, this collaboration will expand to benefit even more MSMEs,” he said.
For the participating entrepreneurs, the IJTI anniversary celebration was more than just an event—it was proof that village-based products can compete in wider markets. “This is only the beginning. By consistently supporting MSMEs, we are not only building stronger businesses but also more resilient communities,” Eko concluded. (P2)
