Pertamina runs MSME development programme tailored to business growth

PT Pertamina (Persero) is running a development programme for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) tailored to the growth or development stage of each business.

“Every MSME has different potential and challenges. Therefore, Pertamina assists MSMEs through access to capital, capacity building and market expansion, adjusted to the needs at each stage of their growth so they can grow stronger, more independent and provide economic benefits to the community,” said Pertamina Vice President Corporate Communication Muhammad Baron in a statement in Jakarta on Saturday.

He continued that Pertamina’s MSME development programme also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth and Goal 9 on Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

“Our programme is also aligned with the third point of Astacita through strengthening entrepreneurship, developing the creative industry and creating quality employment,” he added.

Baron cited Pertamina’s development programme, which follows business growth, as having been provided to an assisted MSME from Karawang, West Java, namely Ubi Madu Bakar Mba Boled.

Starting from a simple shop in Karawang with sales of around Rp100,000 to Rp300,000, it has now grown into a business with 20 outlets spread across Karawang, Cikarang, Tambun and Bekasi.

Its turnover now reaches Rp300 million per month, involving 30 people in its business activities.

Widiarti, the owner of Ubi Madu Bakar Mba Boled, said one of the important milestones in her business development occurred in 2018, when she joined as a Pertamina-assisted MSME.

Through the development programme, she obtained capital support and participated in the UMK Academy to strengthen her knowledge and skills in managing and growing the business.

Pertamina’s development programme continued with participation in various promotional activities and exhibitions, including Pertamina Eco RunFest, Inacraft and the Jakarta Fair.

Widiarti added that her business is now growing further, involving around 30 people.

“Business development is not only about increasing the scale of the business, but also opening up job opportunities and providing benefits for more people,” she said.

Baron added that the journey of Ubi Madu Bakar Mba Boled is one example of how the perseverance of MSME players, supported by access to capital, capacity building and market expansion, can strengthen a business while opening economic opportunities for the community.