Aceh – AMANAH continues to strengthen its commitment to empowering the people of Aceh through training and mentoring for MSMEs. In line with President Jokowi’s vision, one of the programs currently being implemented is the development of MSMEs Craft Bili Droe Woven Products in Aceh Besar Regency. This program aims to preserve local cultural heritage and increase the selling value of handicraft products so that they can compete in the national and international markets.
Bili woven craft products, made from bemban tree trunks, have become an integral part of Acehnese life. Now, Amanah is trying to develop these products to be more valuable with innovative designs that are relevant to current market needs.
To expand the scope of products and markets, Amanah collaborates with product designer from Rumpun Gagas Unggul, Iman Setiobudy, who has experience in developing craft products based on natural materials. Iman and his team are committed to helping craftsmen develop derivative products from bili weaving without eliminating its traditional value.
“Bili plants have many advantages including the flexibility of their skin which is similar to rattan and their abundant availability in the Aceh region. The uniqueness of this natural material is a special attraction for a market that is increasingly concerned with environmentally friendly products,” said Iman Setiobudy.
Iman Setiobudy said that this bili craft product has great potential to develop in the global market, especially because of the increasing demand for environmentally friendly products. Therefore, the training provided by Amanah not only focuses on improving production skills, but also on effective marketing strategies so that these products can be accepted by a wider market.
“This is an opportunity to utilize the existing potential and introduce Aceh’s craft products to a larger market,” he added.
Iman Setiobudy also expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm of the AMANAH team in supporting the development of MSMEs in Aceh because it is very important in encouraging local economic growth and empowering craftsmen to be more independent.
“With ongoing support, craftsmen are not only able to improve their skills, but can also compete in a wider market,” he said.
The MSME mentoring program carried out by Amanah is in line with the government’s grand vision, especially in terms of empowering the people’s economy. President Joko Widodo has long encouraged people-based economic growth by prioritizing the development of the MSME sector as a driving force for the national economy. The support provided by Amanah to local craftsmen is a real form of effort to realize this vision.
“With the development of craft UMKM such as bili weaving, it is hoped that the local economy of Aceh can grow more rapidly and make a greater contribution to overall economic development,” he concluded.