InfoSAWIT, TANA TIDUNG – Palm oil plantations in the Village of Menjelutung, Sub district of Sesayap Hilir, Regency of Tana Tidung, North Kalimantan Province would be one additional income for the local.

Many villagers spent their time by collecting palm oil seeds that fell on the plasma plantations. It was not only the alternative (activity) rather than spending unproductive thing, but also the way to get additional income.

One active villager that collected seeds, could collect the seeds up to five bags per day with the total about 250 kilograms. Plasma partner, Koperasi Usaha Bersama Plasma Menjelutung Perdana Lestari (KUB PMPL) purchased the seeds from the people at Rp 350 per kilogram.

But when fresh fruit bunch (FFB) got more expensive, the villagers hoped that the seeds would be too. Ares Wahyudi, Secretary of KUB PMPL said, the increasing seeds price would positively deliver impacts for the local economy.

“If the seeds get more expensive, the plantations would be cleaner because the villagers would have more spirit to collect seeds on the land. Besides, it would provide new employment for the villagers of Menjelutung," Ares said to InfoSAWIT, Tuesday (17/9/2024).

Collecting seeds showed that the villagers around palm oil plantations took advantages on economic opportunity without involving in formal work. They would independently get additional income in productive ways. This would be the spirit reflection of work ethos of the villagers to support the family and community’s economy. (T2)