BANGKA – The role of women in the economy continues to expand, particularly through micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). As part of its commitment to supporting women's empowerment, PT Timah actively fosters the growth of MSMEs led by women’s groups.
Today, women can contribute to improving their family's economic well-being by utilizing their skills. One inspiring example is Rofida Pratiwi, an independent woman who chose to start her business from the kitchen, baking delicious pastries and generating income.
Since 2018, Rofida has successfully empowered women in Puding Besar, Bangka Regency, by establishing the UMKM Mandiri (Independent MSME) Group.
She initially relied on recipes from her aunt, who had lived in a community of pastry makers in Pagarawan, learning traditional baking techniques passed down through generations.
"At first, I baked by myself using my aunt’s recipes. She taught me the techniques inherited from pastry makers in Pagarawan," Rofida explained.
Her entrepreneurial journey began with nastar, a classic pineapple tart that became the first product of her independent business. Initially, she sold her pastries only to family and neighbors.
"The first time I made cookies for Eid last year, nastar quickly became the most sought-after treat among my neighbors," she said.
Beyond her passion for baking, Rofida’s primary motivation for forming the UMKM Mandiri Group was to empower women in her community, encouraging them to be financially independent.
She envisions a future where more women can become self-reliant and create job opportunities for others.
"I invited my friends to join this group so they could earn extra income and become more active—not just as homemakers, but as contributors to their family’s economy," she expressed.
Recognizing Rofida’s dedication to women's empowerment in her village, PT Timah, through its PUMK (Micro and Small Business Development Program), provided support to help expand their business by supplying additional production equipment.
Currently, UMKM Mandiri Puding Besar, which consists of 15 members, has grown beyond pastries. The group now prepares cooked meals and traditional cakes for large events.
"We are very grateful to PT Timah. Their support has motivated us to develop this business further, benefiting not only our members but also the surrounding community," Rofida shared.
She explained that PT Timah’s assistance was used to upgrade baking equipment and purchase additional cooking tools.
"We bought extra mixers and an electric oven for making pastries. For cooking meals, we acquired woks, large steamers, a refrigerator, and a freezer," she added.
The group markets its products by setting up stalls in local markets, selling door-to-door, and leveraging social media platforms.
"Currently, we rely on our members to sell at markets, go door-to-door, and use personal social media like WhatsApp. We deliver within reasonable distances, but we’re still exploring shipping options for customers outside our village," she explained.
Through UMKM Mandiri, Rofida hopes to continue driving local economic growth and help her group become more self-sufficient.
Her story is a testament to the successful collaboration between PT Timah and the community in boosting local economies and improving family welfare. (*)
