InfoSAWIT, JAMBI – The Class IIB Jambi Women's Prison held a training session for 30 inmates on how to make pempek (fishcake) vinegar using palm sugar. The activity is part of a self-reliance program aimed at equipping the inmates with economically valuable skills. The training, held in the prison's vocational hall, featured instructors from a local MSME, Rumah Kreatif Nekno, known for its expertise in developing traditional food products.

The Head of the Jambi Women's Prison, Meita Eriza, said the training is not just a skills activity but a real effort to empower inmates and prepare them to reintegrate into society. "The hope is that they not only serve their sentences but also have the opportunity to learn and grow. This palm sugar-based pempek vinegar has the potential to become a viable MSME product they can pursue later," she said, as quoted by InfoSAWIT from the Jambi Women's Prison on Saturday (23/8/2025).

The use of palm sugar as a base is considered ideal because it is easy to obtain, has a high selling value, is environmentally friendly, and produces a unique flavor for the pempek vinegar. The head of Rumah Kreatif Nekno, Iriana, added that this skill could be a promising home-based business opportunity. "The ingredients are easy to find, the process is simple, and the result has a unique taste. By using local palm sugar, we are also supporting local products. We hope this knowledge can be a new source of income for the inmates after they are released," she said.

During the training, participants received hands-on lessons on everything from selecting raw materials and the boiling process to fermentation and hygienic packaging. The inmates showed great enthusiasm and actively participated throughout the session. The prison hopes that similar activities can be continued and involve more partners, ensuring the skills acquired can truly open new business opportunities for the inmates in the future. (T2)