Pertamina Patra Niaga: Developing MSMEs is a Corporate Commitment

PT Pertamina Patra Niaga has stated that the development of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is part of the company’s commitment to supporting the increased capacity and competitiveness of domestic entrepreneurs through mentoring and expanded market access.

“Every MSME has a story and the potential to grow. Through the Pertsemina SMEXPO event, we continue to open access for our mentored MSMEs to introduce their products, expand their markets, and build networks,” said Kitty Andhora, VP of Corporate Communication at Pertamina Patra Niaga, in a statement in Jakarta on Friday.

She cited Difa Kreasi, a partner mentored by PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Dumai Refinery since 2020, as an example.

“Difa Kreasi demonstrates that opportunity, the willingness to learn, and hard work can open new avenues for entrepreneurs,” she said.

The story of Difa began with Siti Rohani, who worked as a palm oil porter before successfully developing a palm frond weaving craft business with markets extending to Medan and Jambi.

Siti’s journey as an MSME entrepreneur began when she had the opportunity to participate in palm frond weaving training provided by field officers in the Sungai Sembilan District, Dumai.

Using those skills, she subsequently developed her craft products and received assistance from Pertamina Patra Niaga Dumai Refinery through various MSME development programmes, ranging from financial management and marketing training to social media training and the Pertamina UMK Academy.

“Previously, my husband and I worked as palm fruit porters. The work was very labour-intensive, and because we were daily casual labourers, if there was no work, there was no income,” said Siti.

Currently, Difa does not only market products in Dumai but has also reached markets in Medan and Jambi.

According to Siti, Pertamina SMEXPO is not merely an opportunity to market products, but also a space to share experiences and encourage other women to be brave, independent, and develop their potential.

“For me, Pertamina SMEXPO is more than just an exhibition. It is proof that life can change when we are willing to try, learn, work hard, and not give up easily,” she added.