{"id":8155,"date":"2025-05-28T15:19:31","date_gmt":"2025-05-28T07:19:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blue-forests.org\/?p=8155"},"modified":"2025-08-13T11:15:42","modified_gmt":"2025-08-13T03:15:42","slug":"ramadan-blessings-through-the-improve-livelihood-program","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blue-forests.org\/en\/ramadan-blessings-through-the-improve-livelihood-program\/newsroom\/story-from-the-field\/","title":{"rendered":"Ramadan Blessings Through the Improve Livelihood Program"},"content":{"rendered":"

Amid the vibrant spirit of the blessed month of Ramadan, the atmosphere in Medan Mas Village, Batu Ampar District, Kubu Raya, feels livelier than usual. Residents are busy preparing for Eid celebrations, and one of the most sought-after products during this time is the local fish cracker <\/span>Amplang Ayu<\/span><\/em>. This <\/span>local<\/span> delicacy has become a symbol of pride for the village, thanks to the remarkable efforts of a resilient female entrepreneur named Ayu Varonika.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ayu is more than just a micro-business owner\u2014she is the face of social and economic transformation in her village. For two consecutive years, her <\/span>Amplang<\/span><\/em> cracker business has seen a significant increase in orders, especially during Ramadan. From a modest home-based venture, <\/span>Amplang Ayu<\/span><\/em> has now expanded into regional markets, achieving record sales of over one ton in a single season.<\/span><\/p>\n

Products at the outlet \u2013 (Blue Forests)<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Behind this outstanding success lies a long journey marked by perseverance, innovation, and support from a community-based initiative: the Improve Livelihood Program, led by the Blue Forests Foundation (Yayasan Hutan Biru \u2013 YHB) in collaboration with Blue Action Fund and Blue Ventures. This program has been a key catalyst in developing Ayu’s business and many other local enterprises through an adaptive and sustainable approach.<\/p>\n

From Home Kitchen to Regional Market<\/strong><\/p>\n

Amplang<\/span><\/em> crackers, made from Spanish mackerel, are a coastal delicacy popular in West Kalimantan. The fish <\/span>is sourced<\/span> from local fishermen in the mangrove waters surrounding Medan Mas Village. Before joining the program, Ayu produced these crackers using traditional methods on a limited scale. She faced several challenges, including inconsistent product quality, limited market access, and a lack of business management expertise.<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/strong>Amplang frying process \u2013 (Blue Forests)<\/em><\/p>\n

Through the Improve Livelihood Program initiated by YHB, Ayu received intensive training covering production techniques, branding, digital marketing, financial management, and business expansion strategies. The YHB team encouraged Ayu to adopt sustainability principles throughout her business, starting with responsibly sourced raw materials and eco-friendly packaging. These innovations gradually enhanced the competitiveness of her product without compromising the environment.<\/p>\n

As a result, <\/span>Amplang Ayu<\/span><\/em> is now recognized not just for its crunch and flavor but also for its commitment to sustainability. The label “sustainable product” has become a value-added feature that appeals primarily to environmentally conscious consumers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Ayu, who has experienced the direct impact of the Improve Livelihood Program, shared her gratitude during a community dialogue session, “Without the support from Blue Forests Foundation, I wouldn’t have been able to build networks with other partners or attract resellers who now help grow our business as a group. Their mentorship helped me manage the business more effectively, obtain product permits, and promote and market it more efficiently. Previously, we had no guidance\u2014obtaining permits alone was costly and required independent action. But with Blue Forests’ support, we’ve been greatly helped. We still need to be more independent, though. The knowledge and experience shared during the program are our motivation to keep producing and innovating. If the business continues to grow, I also want to empower more locals so they can benefit, too,” Ayu said with enthusiasm.<\/p>\n

Economic, Social, and Environmental Impacts<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ayu’s increased production capacity has had positive ripple effects throughout the community. Several homemakers have joined as additional staff members for production. Local fishermen who previously struggled to sell their catch consistently now have a stable market as suppliers of raw materials. This has fostered a locally rooted economic system based on mutual support.<\/p>\n

Members of the Amplang Ayu group \u2013 Blue Forests<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Ayu presented her product at a coastal business forum hosted by Kubu Raya’s Regent \u2013 Blue Forests<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

Socially, Ayu’s business contributes directly to improving family and community welfare. She is also increasingly involved in MSME forums, sharing her experience and inspiring other women entrepreneurs in nearby villages.<\/p>\n

Environmentally, Ayu applies blue economy principles, emphasizing that economic growth in coastal areas must not harm the sea, mangroves, or surrounding ecosystems. Her team has also begun diversifying products from marine resources in a responsible manner.<\/p>\n

Key Lessons from Ayu’s Success<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ayu’s success offers essential lessons for similar programs in other coastal areas:<\/p>\n

Participatory and Contextual Approach<\/p>\n