Using Modern Technology, Traditional MSME Production in Gresik Increases Dramatically
Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) continue to be the backbone of the Indonesian economy, especially in rural areas. Recognizing the critical role of this sector, a team of lecturers from Wijaya Putra University (UWP) visited Randupadangan Village, Menganti District, Gresik, to assist MSMEs in improving their production quality and capacity.
One of the MSMEs participating in this Community Service Program (PKM) is Ibu Rupiah's traditional "kering" cake business, which has long been well-known to local residents. Despite its popularity, the business faces significant challenges in meeting growing market demand.
"The main problems we identified were limited production capacity, the use of traditional production tools, and suboptimal digital marketing," said Ampar Jaya Suwondo, S.T., M.T., Chair of the UWP PKM Executive Committee.
To address these challenges, the UWP team implemented an Appropriate Technology (TTG)-based approach. Some of the innovations introduced include a 10 kg per cycle deep fryer and a modern 2 kg cake drying oven. Both devices are designed to maintain consistent product quality while increasing production efficiency.
Furthermore, the cake drying and cooling process now utilizes food-grade stainless steel trays, replacing the previously used plastic winnows. This step not only improves hygiene but also makes the cakes more durable and visually appealing.
The program also addresses modern marketing aspects. MSMEs are trained to utilize social media and e-commerce platforms such as Instagram, Tokopedia, and Shopee to expand their market reach.
"With intensive training, operators are now able to operate the new equipment effectively. In fact, daily production has increased by around 30%, and their digital marketing skills have also improved significantly," said Ampar Jaya.
The program's target is quite ambitious: to increase sales by at least 20% through digital channels. To date, initial results show a positive trend, both in terms of demand and product competitiveness.
This program not only impacts businesses but also has a ripple effect on the surrounding community. The increase in production capacity creates new jobs and strengthens the supply chain between producers, raw material suppliers, and local distributors.
Furthermore, this program also supports the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of innovation, decent work, and sustainability-based local economic growth.
"Empowerment initiatives like this align with global issues regarding the blue economy and environmental sustainability. Traditional culinary MSMEs like Ibu Rupiah's have great potential if supported with the right technology and mentoring," added Ampar Jaya.
This program receives funding support from the Directorate of Research and Community Service, the Directorate General of Research and Development, and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology.
Going forward, the UWP team is committed to conducting regular monitoring and evaluation, as well as expanding the program's impact to other villages in Gresik and the surrounding areas. It is hoped that this technology- and digitalization-based empowerment model can be replicated more widely to accelerate the growth of MSMEs nationwide.
