By: Tengku Rahman Hidayah
In an effort to advance the regional economy and strengthen the skills of the younger generation, the Aceh Young Leaders for Excellence (AMANAH) has become a pioneer in implementing programs that align with President Joko Widodo’s vision. AMANAH is committed to developing technical skills and innovation among the youth of Aceh, supporting President Jokowi’s flagship programs in building a sustainable and competitive economy.
The AMANAH initiative not only includes technical training but also encourages innovation that is relevant to market needs. A concrete example of this effort is the fiberglass boat project, which involves mechanical engineering students from Syiah Kuala University in Banda Aceh in the development process. This project provides an opportunity for the younger generation to apply their knowledge in creating technological solutions that benefit society. This program also provides space for students to take an active role in the application of sustainable and environmentally friendly technology.
One of the local fishermen and fishery entrepreneurs, Nasri, stated that this fiberglass boat offers several advantages compared to traditional wooden boats. Nasri explained that the main innovation of this boat is the use of fiberglass material, while the typical Acehnese tep-tep boats are generally made of wood.
According to Nasri, wooden boats have several disadvantages compared to fiberglass boats. One of the differences lies in the purchase and maintenance costs. Fiberglass boats are considered more economical, as they do not require expensive routine maintenance. Because they are made of fiberglass, maintenance costs can be reduced to zero. This material can last for several years without needing replacement like wooden boats.
Nasri also added that in the first trial, the fiberglass boat proved to be lighter, thus saving fuel. The boat’s engine does not need to work hard to move the boat and its cargo, allowing fuel consumption to be reduced by up to 50% compared to wooden boats. Therefore, this boat has the potential to increase the profits of fishermen in Aceh.
In addition, AMANAH is also collaborating with engineering students from USK to launch an electric bicycle innovation designed for various needs. The student team coordinator from the Mechanical Engineering Department, Dimas Wardana, explained that this bicycle uses seamless steel material with a diameter of 27 millimeters and a thickness of 3.5 millimeters, which is stronger and lighter compared to similar materials. This bicycle is equipped with a 48-volt 1,000-watt BLDC motor, providing sufficient power to handle heavy loads. The AMANAH electric bicycle is also equipped with 20-inch tires, enhancing its performance and durability. The design of this bicycle frame and machine allows for use in both urban and rural areas.
The plan is for AMANAH, together with students from the Engineering Faculty of USK, to create five bicycle units: three for passengers and two others for transporting goods. Dimas explained that the two bicycles will be equipped with special innovations: one for a coffee cart (barista) and the other for a gallon transport cart. Dimas hopes that this innovation can support the needs of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises. (UMKM). The team led by Dimas is finishing the creation of the bicycle frame, after going through the design and construction stages. This process involves the use of heavy and advanced equipment, starting from bending iron, welding to connect iron pieces, to smoothing the weld surface, and finally painting it with a base color.
The production of bicycles is carried out entirely at the AMANAH Workshop in Banda Aceh. AMANAH provides the workshop, raw materials, equipment, and other team necessities. They are planning to produce five units of bicycles: three units for passengers and two units for transporting goods.
The steps taken by AMANAH reflect President Jokowi’s vision, which emphasizes the importance of practical skills and local innovation in building a resilient economy. President Jokowi, through AMANAH, has encouraged the development of human resources through vocational education and skills training that are relevant to labor market needs. Programs like AMANAH not only provide technical training but also inspire the younger generation to innovate and contribute to local problem-solving.
In addition, AMANAH inaugurated the construction of a technology workshop in the Aceh Industrial Area (KIA) Ladong, Aceh Besar Regency. This facility will provide a platform for the youth of Aceh to continue developing their skills and creating innovations that can be applied across various industrial sectors. This workshop will also serve as a hub for research and technology development, supporting the technology-based economic growth that is one of President Jokowi’s main focuses.
Through the initiative of inaugurating the AMANAH Building, AMANAH not only supports the development of skills among the younger generation but also contributes to enhancing local competitiveness at both national and global levels. By equipping the youth with practical skills and relevant innovations, AMANAH is helping to realize President Jokowi’s grand vision of strengthening the regional economy through entrepreneurship and technology.
With continuous support for programs like this, AMANAH plays a role as a driver of change that prepares the young generation of Aceh to face future challenges and actively participate in building a more inclusive and sustainable economy. This initiative is an important step in ensuring that the potential of the younger generation can develop optimally, in line with President Jokowi’s policy direction that focuses on the development of skills and local innovation.
Students of UTU Engineering