“We hope candied coconut can become a village’s signature product and increase household income,” said Maulisa, Head of the Creative Economy Division at Gemawan.
From Raw Coconuts to High-Value Products
To maximize local potential, Gemawan held a candied coconut–making workshop with the Maju Bersama Women’s Group in Parit Sarim Hamlet, Punggur Besar Village, Sungai Kakap District, Kubu Raya Regency, on May 19, 2023.
The training aimed to transform raw coconuts into high-value products while empowering rural women through economic capacity building.
Punggur Besar Village is known for its premium coconuts. Traditionally, villagers sold them raw at Rp5,000–7,000 per piece. While prices were relatively stable, commodity market fluctuations often disrupted household income.
To address this, the Maju Bersama group decided to innovate—processing coconuts into candied sweets.
The session was led by Sartini, a member of the Women’s Union of Kayong Utara (SETARA), and held at the home of Samunah, the group’s chairperson.
“This initiative increases the value of local commodities while sharpening women’s creativity.
Our hope is that candied coconut becomes a village specialty that boosts the community’s income,”
said Maulisa during her opening remarks.
Enthusiasm and Strategic Steps
The participants showed high enthusiasm throughout the training—asking detailed questions about processing techniques, packaging design, and marketing strategies.
“We usually sell coconuts raw at the market. With this training, we can produce and sell our own goods at better prices,”
shared one of the group members.
Beyond raising income potential, the activity also became a platform for women’s empowerment and collective decision-making.
“This is the first time we’ve received training like this. We’re learning not just to make candied coconut but also to manage a small business together,”
said a participant proudly.
Linking Commodities and Communities
The Maju Bersama Women’s Group is now planning to diversify into other coconut-based products such as virgin coconut oil (VCO) and coconut chips. With support from local government and strategic partners, they aim to expand their market reach—both locally and nationally.
“We’re optimistic that with collaboration and innovation, our products will gain recognition and create new job opportunities in the village,”
concluded Maulisa.
Writer: Ersa Dwiyana, Gemawan Activist