InfoSAWIT, PONTIANAK – A grueling 12-hour journey from Sengkuang Merabung Village in Ketapang Regency did not deter four micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) owners from participating in the 6th anniversary celebration of the Indonesian Television Journalists Association (IJTI) in Pontianak. Their presence highlighted the vital role of MSMEs in connecting rural communities with wider markets and serving as key pillars of local economic resilience.
Amid the festive atmosphere, the MSME booth mentored by PT Bangun Nusa Mandiri and PT Kencana Graha Permai, subsidiaries of Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food, drew significant attention. Products made from processed catfish, branded as “Silele,” along with woven crafts from palm oil broomsticks, captivated visitors. These items showcased the dedication, innovation, and sustainability of the entrepreneurs behind them. The Silele brand, initiated by a group of women in Sengkuang Merabung and Biku Sarana villages under the leadership of Lili Yen, produces a variety of goods, including catfish broth, sticks, and meatballs.
“This processed catfish offers more options for consumers and provides a nutritious solution with high protein content. It's also an affordable choice for families,” explained Sofie Chaniago, a CSR facilitator at PT Bangun Nusa Mandiri. In addition to supporting community nutrition, the products are aimed at helping to reduce stunting rates.
Meanwhile, Lusiana, a palm broomstick weaver, demonstrated her creative process. She transforms the sticks, often considered waste, into decorative plates, utensil holders, and baskets. "During the dry season, I have to be more careful because the color of the sticks can turn dark," she said in an official statement received by InfoSAWIT on Friday (22/8/2025). Despite facing marketing challenges, Lusiana remains persistent. With training and promotional support from PT Kencana Graha Permai, her products are now gaining wider recognition and receiving orders from outside the region.
The Estate Manager of PT Bangun Nusa Mandiri, Eko Kuswoyo, emphasized the tangible impact of these initiatives. "The catfish farming and its processed products have entered district and provincial markets. Our collaboration through CSR can build a stronger local economy," he stated. These entrepreneurs are part of the Bright Future Initiative, an MSME acceleration network by Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food that has assisted more than 100 MSMEs in developing nearly 200 projects across various operational areas.
In addition to Silele and the woven crafts, PT Agrolestari Mandiri also showcased other unique products like tempoyak (fermented durian) and kelulut honey. West Kalimantan Governor Ria Norsan, who attended the celebration, praised the contribution. “I strongly support the efforts of Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food in empowering MSMEs in Ketapang. I hope this collaboration continues to expand to more MSMEs in the future,” he said.
The participation of these Ketapang MSMEs in the IJTI West Kalimantan anniversary not only enlivened the event but also underscored the belief that local products from rural villages can compete beyond their home regions. “We believe this is just the beginning. By continuing to support MSMEs, we are building not only a stronger business but also a more resilient community,” Eko concluded. (T2)
