Berkah Serai Wangi (BSW) is a Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) from Jambi fostered by PT Sari Aditya Loka (SAL), a subsidiary of PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk.
BSW produces citronella oil, also known as citronella oil, which is an essential oil extracted from citronella plants.
The local business established in 2022, has managed to market its citronella oil products not only to the local market but even to the megapolitan city of Jakarta.
In one day, BSW can produce up to 3,000 bottles of citronella oil. In fact, BSW not only produces citronella oil but also other derivative products such as citronella dish soap, citronella massage oil, and citronella floor cleaner.
‘This is all thanks to the cooperation of Suku Anak Dalam (SAD) residents who assist in the production process. Additionally, we also source plants directly from their cultivation, which is supported by PT SAL,’ said Hendri Sumasto, BSW UMKM coach.
Hendri noted that besides helping the SAD cultivate land for fragrant lemongrass, PT SAL also provides training and marketing support for its MSMEs.
‘BSW consistently produces oil and approaches government agencies to use local MSME products, which indirectly promotes our products. As a result, we have gained more consumers through word of mouth,’ he added.
PT SAL Corporate Social Responsibility Assistant Slamet Riyadi confirmed that the fragrant lemongrass oil product was initially introduced by SAD residents in 2023 from the Temenggung Grip group.
‘Initially, SAD residents planted the lemongrass to deter mosquitoes, insects, and macaques that disturbed their food crops,’ said Slamet.
According to Slamet, the cultivation of citronella plants and the marketing prospects for BSW products are the main challenges faced by MSMEs in developing and improving their business economy.
‘In line with BSW, SAD residents are also one of PT SAL’s priorities in achieving economic independence so they do not solely depend on natural products from the Bukit Duabelas National Park (TNBD) area,’ he explained.
PT SAL, a subsidiary of PT Astra Agro Lestari (Astra Agro), is devoted to enhancing the economy and progress of the surrounding communities and indigenous peoples, such as the SAD residents.
Economic empowerment of indigenous peoples aligns with the sustainability business principles promoted by Astra Agro, emphasizing prosperity for the nation.
Source: Tribun News
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