WEST BANGKA – PT Timah continues to uphold its commitment to enhancing the local economy by engaging community groups. One such effort includes providing support and business assistance to the Sumber Rezeki Catfish Farming Group in Kapit Village, Parit Tiga District, West Bangka Regency.
The assistance was handed over directly by PT Timah’s Manager of Social & Environmental Responsibility, Fachriza, to the representative of the Sumber Rezeki Group, Surya Andika, accompanied by the Section Head of Community Development Area North Bangka, Dikron, and the Section Head of Land Mine Supervision, PT Timah, Wendi Isjana, on Thursday (January 16, 2025).
Established around 2004, the Sumber Rezeki group has faced numerous challenges, including suboptimal pond conditions, which hindered the group’s efforts to expand its catfish farming business.
Several parts of the pond had leaks, making it difficult to retain water necessary for the growth and breeding of catfish.
Through its Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) program, PT Timah provided business assistance to the Sumber Rezeki group for pond renovation, as well as the purchase of feed and fish stock.
According to the group’s representative, Surya Andika, the assistance will be used to renovate the fish pond, allowing the business, which had previously suffered losses, to resume and improve the group’s economic prospects.
“The old pond was no longer functional. We are very grateful that our group received business assistance from PT Timah. Initially, we planned to build a new pond, but instead, we decided to renovate the existing one to avoid wasting resources,” he explained.
Despite the high costs, the group remains optimistic and determined to enhance the welfare and economy of its members, resolving to continue their catfish farming business.
“After a hiatus due to leaking ponds, we are now optimistic that this effort will improve the welfare of our group. We are repairing the leaks in nearly all nine ponds. We must remain motivated to rebuild what we started,” Surya added.
One of the main challenges in running the catfish farming business, according to Surya, is the high cost of feed, which increases operational expenses and necessitates careful planning.
“Feed prices are high, making operational costs significant. The returns from the harvest often don’t cover the investment. Therefore, we need to reassess and plan the next steps to ensure the business runs more effectively,” he said.
Representing the other group members, Surya expressed his gratitude to PT Timah for providing business assistance, which has enabled them to continue their efforts toward better economic outcomes for the group.
“Thank you, PT Timah. May PT Timah thrive again, as before. I hope all current challenges facing PT Timah are resolved soon so that the company can continue to grow and provide more assistance to the community,” he said.
This assistance aligns with PT Timah’s efforts to empower local communities, particularly in the fisheries sector, which holds significant potential for improving community livelihoods. (*)
