PANGKALPINANG – Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a key role in driving the economy, and PT Timah continues its efforts to enhance the capabilities of MSMEs, especially its foster partners in the company's operational areas, by providing various training programs.
This time, PT Timah collaborated with Rumah BUMN Bangka Belitung and several other state-owned enterprises (BUMNs) such as Telkom, Pos Indonesia, and Bank BNI to hold the 'Empowering Local Brand: Enhancing the Competitiveness of MSMEs Based on Sustainability and Going Global' workshop at Graha Timah, Pangkalpinang, on Tuesday (8/10/2024).
Around a hundred MSMEs participated in the training, which featured speakers from various backgrounds, including MSME practitioners such as Billiton Spice Founder Vivi Widyana, Rumah Budaya Kabong Founder Muhammad Hatta, Palembang PT Pos Indonesia Executive General Manager Agus Pinandoyo, and Pangkalpinang Customs and Excise Official Agung Hermawan.
The Executive Director of the Social and Environmental Responsibility Forum (TJSL) of the Ministry of SOEs, Gede Arimbawa Yasa, was present to open the workshop.
On this occasion, he encouraged MSMEs in Bangka Belitung Province to take advantage of the workshop to broaden their knowledge and utilize the Naksir application, which helps the Ministry of SOEs collect data on their development level.
"Take this opportunity to learn. The Ministry of SOEs has developed the Naksir application, which can assist in assessing the level of MSMEs so that they can receive support for further development," he said.
He added that MSMEs are one of the drivers of the national economy, so their existence and development should be a concern for all parties.
Muslim L Hakim, a representative from the Bangka Belitung Cooperative and MSME Agency, appreciated Rumah BUMN Bangka Belitung for initiating this training, which is highly relevant to the needs of MSMEs.
"We know that Babel is currently facing challenges, with declining demand and purchasing power. Fortunately, MSMEs continue to thrive, supporting the Babel economy and making a positive contribution," he said.
He added that one of the challenges for Bangka Belitung's MSMEs is getting their products to go global, as it involves meeting various requirements and regulations, including product shelf life. He hopes that the training will help educate MSMEs on these matters.
The MSME participants were enthusiastic, as evidenced by the numerous questions that arose during the discussions.
Suryani, an MSME owner from Pangkalpinang, said that the workshop motivated her to develop her products for export.
"There are many new insights I gained from today's workshop, especially on how to develop our products to be accepted in the export market. I am now considering taking care of the necessary permits and improving product quality," she said.
Meanwhile, Rudy Darwin, CEO of Rumah BUMN Bangka Belitung, stated that besides helping to market and promote MSME products, Rumah BUMN also plays a role in providing training and assisting MSMEs in fulfilling legal requirements.
"We hope that MSMEs in Babel will take advantage of this opportunity to learn. We brought in various speakers, including MSME practitioners, PT Pos, and Customs. Learn the tips and tricks to make your products go global," he advised.
One of the speakers, Billiton Spice Founder Vivi Widyana, explained that the enthusiasm of MSME participants was extraordinary. To break into the global market, she said, MSMEs must have a strong selling point and product value.
"The challenge to go global is understanding the unique selling point of your product. Then, focus on the value of your product, and define your target market so you can adapt, pursue certifications, and actively participate in expos. But most importantly, don't give up easily," she emphasized. (*)
