Fifteen MSME Operators in Thousand Islands Trained to Make Lebaran Biscuits

Fifteen micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) operators in the Thousand Islands have received professional training in producing oven-free Lebaran biscuits, as part of efforts to boost their skills and earning potential ahead of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr.

“This training aims to improve the skills of MSME operators, particularly in producing practical and efficient oven-free Lebaran biscuits,” said Misbahul Anam, facilitator at Pertamina’s Rumah BUMN in the Thousand Islands, in Jakarta on Saturday.

He said the 15 MSME operators were taught directly by professional instructors. Participants learned techniques for making various types of oven-free dry biscuits, including nugget-style treats and chocolate confections originating from Arab countries and also popular in Italy.

According to Anam, the training was designed to enhance the skills of the assisted MSME operators in making oven-free Lebaran biscuits, whilst broadening their knowledge and creative ideas so they could innovate and create products with strong market appeal and high commercial value.

Through the training, he hoped participants would be able to produce neater Lebaran hampers ready for market, thereby increasing their income opportunities, particularly as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr approach.

He noted the programme was highly beneficial for MSME operators in building their capacity and creativity, especially given the considerable business opportunities in hampers and Lebaran biscuits during the festive period.

“We hope training like this continues on an ongoing basis so that MSMEs on Panggang Island and the surrounding area can continue to grow and remain competitive,” he said.

Rinda, 38, a training participant and owner of Kennata Cake on Panggang Island, said the programme had been very helpful.

She described the training as highly beneficial, particularly for those running businesses in the biscuit sector.

“This activity has given me creative ideas and can serve as a foundation for innovating and developing my business,” Rinda said.