BANGKA – In a home in Air Anyir, Bangka Regency, the savory aroma of fish being roasted mingles with the distinctive fragrance of spices. Over a large wok, Apri Yuliani expertly stirs Sambal Lingkung, a traditional Bangka condiment that’s part of the local culinary heritage of the Tin Island community.
For the people of Bangka, Sambal Lingkung is more than just food—it’s a flavorful legacy and a symbol of cultural identity passed down from generation to generation. That’s why Apri, a fostered micro-entrepreneur supported by PT TIMAH Tbk, is committed to maintaining the originality of its taste.
Apri, the founder of the brand "Dapuk Nyamen Apri", has been producing Sambal Lingkung for over ten years. She explains that Sambal Lingkung is different from typical shredded meat products—not only in preparation and flavor, but also in appearance. Her version is well known for its strong spice profile, a hallmark of the Bangka variant.
“I started by selling cakes. Since we live near the beach, I took the initiative to make Sambal Lingkung—especially since the main ingredients, like fish, are readily available. Alhamdulillah, to this day I’m able to produce Sambal Lingkung using mackerel, gagok, mayong, and even shark fish, which adds a richer taste when mixed with the spices,” she said.
What began as a small-scale home business has grown significantly since Apri became a partner in PT TIMAH Tbk’s microbusiness development program. Her Sambal Lingkung products are now regularly featured in exhibitions, increasing their exposure and popularity.
Today, Apri produces about 5–6 kilograms of Sambal Lingkung per week, with demand surging during special occasions like Eid or before the departure of Hajj pilgrims.
“My Sambal Lingkung has even made it to America. During Hajj season, many pilgrims order Sambal Lingkung to take to Mecca as part of their food supplies. It can last 5–6 months at room temperature,” she shared.
Apri credits PT TIMAH Tbk’s support—from training, mentoring, to helping her participate in exhibitions—for her business's growing recognition. This support has also inspired her to expand into other products.
“Alhamdulillah, since becoming a PT TIMAH partner, my product has become more well-known. I once joined an exhibition in Bandung, and my products sold out on the first day. I’ve also participated in many exhibitions across Bangka Island, Pangkalpinang, and surrounding areas,” she added.
To Apri, PT TIMAH Tbk has not only provided capital support, but also ongoing encouragement to diversify and expand her business.
In addition to Sambal Lingkung, Apri also produces wajik (glutinous rice sweets), pempek, tekwan, siomay, enjan, fried empiang, and various cakes such as sago layer cake (lapis sagu). PT TIMAH Tbk even assisted her in obtaining a halal certification for her cake products.
“Thank you, PT TIMAH, for continuing to support and motivate us small business owners. We’re grateful for the opportunities to join exhibitions and trainings, for the funding support, and even the halal certification. Hopefully, PT TIMAH will continue to stand with MSMEs,” she concluded. (*)
