EAST BELITUNG—Badau Village in East Belitung Regency is renowned as one of the top pineapple-producing areas in the Land of the Rainbow Troops. Zulyanti, the leader of the Aek Jelutung Farmers Group, has harnessed this potential.
Zulyanti’s name has gained recognition for bringing significant change to the Aek Jelutung Farmers Group through her collaboration with PT Timah Tbk.
Under Zulyanti’s leadership, the Aek Jelutung Farmers Group successfully developed its flagship product under the PROTEIN NABATI program (Integrated Innovation Program for Badau Pineapples of Belitung Indonesia), which was fully supported by PT Timah Tbk.
This program exemplifies how empowering local communities and synergizing with companies can create significant economic and social impacts.
Before joining PT Timah’s Community Development and Empowerment Program (PPM), Zulyanti admitted her group faced numerous challenges. Limited equipment, low production efficiency, and minimal marketing efforts were the primary barriers to expanding their business.
However, with PT Timah's support—ranging from training and mentoring to providing modern equipment—the Aek Jelutung Farmers Group experienced a transformative shift.
“Previously, we could only produce a small quantity of pineapple dodol (a traditional sweet snack). Now, thanks to PT Timah’s support, we have increased production and developed innovative products such as pineapple nastar, pineapple crackers, and pineapple sponge cake, enhancing our competitiveness in the market,” Zulyanti explained.
PT Timah provided more than just equipment. The group also received training in packaging, marketing, and product innovation, which became the cornerstone of their transformation.
“We learned how to create attractive packaging, develop marketing strategies, and even received support from PT Timah to expand our market reach beyond the region. This truly elevated our business to the next level,” Zulyanti added.
Additionally, PT Timah assisted the group in expanding their pineapple plantation to ensure a steady supply of raw materials, particularly during challenges like prolonged droughts.
This partnership not only improved the welfare of the farmers but also created a broader social impact in Badau Village. Membership in the Aek Jelutung Farmers Group increased from 10 to 28, all of whom are local residents.
“In the past, our group was underestimated. Now, thanks to PT Timah’s guidance, the community recognizes the potential of our products. Many are eager to join and contribute to this growing enterprise,” Zulyanti noted.
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The program has also generated new jobs, boosted the local economy, and inspired the community to take pride in their village’s flagship products.
Zulyanti envisions taking the Aek Jelutung Farmers Group to the global market. With innovative products like pineapple-and-cassava-based crackers launched this year, she is optimistic about their ability to compete internationally.
“Our hope is for PT Timah to continue mentoring and promoting our products. We want Badau’s pineapple products to become a source of pride for Belitung and Indonesia in international markets,” she said.
Zulyanti also expressed her gratitude to PT Timah Tbk. “Thank you for all the support provided. PT Timah truly cares and consistently supports us. We hope PT Timah continues to succeed and brings even broader positive impacts, not just in Badau but across Belitung and Indonesia,” Zulyanti concluded.
This strategic partnership demonstrates that well-planned and sustainable collaboration can bring about substantial change. Zulyanti and the Aek Jelutung Farmers Group are living proof of how empowering local communities can produce quality products, strengthen the economy, and create lasting social impact. (*)
