Desa Emas Programme Drives Village Enterprise Groups to Break into Export Markets

Desa Emas Programme, implemented through the Indonesian Setara Foundation (YIS) in collaboration with Inotek, has strengthened the capacity and competitiveness of community business groups. Notably, the Mekar Lestari Farming Group (Poktan Mekar Lestari) and the Cagar Alam KUB (KUB Cagar Alam) are now beginning to access international export markets. Through a series of coaching and capacity-building activities, the groups have advanced in business management, product innovation, and expanded market access. The programme focuses on empowering village entrepreneurs to grow independently and sustainably.

The founder of the Indonesian Setara Foundation said participants received workshops on capacity-building, soft skills, and business strengthening. The materials covered strengthening group governance, marketing optimisation, business plan development, and business training.

Participants were also introduced to downstream coffee product technologies through the production of cascara, a herbal tea beverage made from dried coffee cherry skins. “This innovation has the potential to increase the added value of agricultural products while opening new market opportunities,” said Sandiaga Uno, in an official statement.

He noted that export opportunities opened further after Poktan Mekar Lestari joined the Desa Bisa Ekspor programme, initiated by the Ministry of Trade. Through that programme, the farming group had the opportunity to participate in pitching sessions with the Cairo Trade Attaché to broaden its international market networks.

“Moreover, Poktan Mekar Lestari has successfully penetrated the Malaysian market. Their coffee products are now marketed to roasteries, cafes, and coffee barista schools in that country,” he said.

This success strengthens the integrated capacity of communities, ranging from improved skills and product innovation to business strength and market access, enabling local entrepreneurs to be more competitive in global markets.

The YIS continues to run related initiatives, including the Rocket Incubation 2026 scholarship programme, intensive mentoring for young entrepreneurs, and training activities that promote digital technology adoption. The programme supports housewives and village communities and emphasises progressive training for small and medium enterprises to climb the value chain.