Baznas launches Z-Ifthar programme across 27 Indonesian cities to boost UMKM market access

Jakarta – Indonesia’s National Zakat Agency (Baznas) has launched the Z-Ifthar programme as a means of consolidating and expanding market access for micro, small and medium enterprise (UMKM) operators supported by Baznas during the sacred month of Ramadan across 30 locations in 27 cities throughout Indonesia.

“Alhamdulillah, Baznas is launching Z-Ifthar at 30 locations. This programme is here to provide market access for products from our supported UMKM. We want to provide genuine economic circulation for them over the next 15 days so that the blessings of Ramadan are also felt economically by our supported beneficiaries,” said Saidah Sakwan, Head of Baznas Distribution and Empowerment Division, in a statement in Jakarta on Sunday.

Baznas is also providing mentoring on halal certification and packaging improvement to ensure their products are highly competitive and have potential for repeat orders after Ramadan.

The positive impact of the Z-Ifthar programme is being felt directly by the supported UMKM operators.

Sinta, owner of “Dapur Bunda Sinta” in the Kebon Manggis area, Matraman, Jakarta, revealed that her participation in Z-Ifthar has not only increased income but also expanded her customer base.

“Alhamdulillah, through Z-Ifthar this Ramadan my business has grown and customers have increased. My signature products, such as sticky rice tapai and coconut ice cream are now more well-known and I receive orders via WhatsApp. My hope is that Baznas will continue to organise this activity every year,” she said.

In similar comments, Rosdiana, another UMKM operator supported by Baznas, expressed gratitude for the strategic location facilities and capital assistance provided.

“From the beginning until now, my turnover is highest here. Today I brought 100 portions and alhamdulillah they have almost sold out. Besides receiving a free stall, we are also assisted with operational funds from Baznas,” said Rosdiana.