Kundur Residents in Riau Islands Transform Abandoned Land into Economic Resource
The Tuah Bersatu group in Sawang Laut Village, Kundur Island, Riau Islands, has transformed previously abandoned coastal land into a new economic resource. This initiative stems from the residents’ need to reduce their complete dependence on fishing yields.
Coastal communities’ incomes have traditionally been dictated by seasons and weather conditions. When the sea is calm, catches are plentiful. But when waves are high, fishing activities halt, and incomes stall. This situation prompted residents to develop alternative businesses based on local potential.
Chairman of the Tuah Bersatu group, Amran, explained that the change began with the community’s awareness of the need for additional income. “In the past, we were fishermen; after fishing, we rested. There were no other activities. From there, we thought about how to get extra income,” said the local figure, quoted on Tuesday (5/5/2026).
Using empty coastal land, the group began pioneering white snapper cultivation in 2022, which has been actively running since 2023. Business development has proceeded gradually, in line with the group’s capabilities and readiness.
Activities then expanded into various sectors, from hydroponics and shrimp paste production to layer chicken farming and preparations for a community-based waste bank. This diversification serves as a strategy to strengthen residents’ economic resilience.
“It started with snapper, then expanded to hydroponics and shrimp paste. Now it’s entered layer chickens and waste bank. All step by step,” said Amran.
Economic impacts are already being felt. The chicken farming unit can market around 100 birds per month, with turnover ranging from Rp10-12 million. Meanwhile, the hydroponics managed by women provides additional income through the sale of fresh vegetables like pakcoy, lettuce, and sweet mustard greens.
“It’s not big yet, but it really helps family finances,” added Amran.
Changes are also evident in the improved capacity of human resources. Residents who previously relied only on fishing skills are now mastering cultivation techniques to business management. “We’ve learned a lot, got to know department heads, gained knowledge from experts. That’s what’s most noticeable,” he said.
In its development, the Tuah Bersatu group received assistance through the Social and Environmental Responsibility (TJSL) programme of PT Timah Tbk, a member of the MIND ID Mining Industry Holding. Assistance covers land clearing, technical strengthening, and business development.
The group is also promoting efficiency through plans to develop independent feed for fish cultivation to reduce operational costs. “We hope this programme continues to be developed. We want to be more independent and help a wider community,” said Amran.
For the residents of Sawang Laut, this effort marks the initial step in building economic independence based on coastal potential. Land that was once abandoned has now developed into a centre of growing business activities.