Present at Kebumen International Expo 2023, Pertamina Supports SMEs to Expand Domestic Market

Kebumen, June 19, 2023 - PT Pertamina (Persero) is encouraging the local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) market expansion through domestic and international exhibitions. It is reflected in 19 local MSMEs supported by Pertamina's participation in the Kebumen International Expo (KIE) 2023, from June 17 to 24, 2023, at Alun-alun Kebumen, Central Java.

KIE is an annual event in its 2nd year in Kebumen to promote Kebumen Regency's leading products in the trade, tourism, and investment sectors to investors and consumers from both domestic and international markets. 

"This year, Pertamina involves the top 19 MSMEs in crafts, culinary, and fashion from Kebumen and Central Java to reach a wider market. This event is an excellent opportunity as it is expected to be attended by approximately 240,000 people," explained Fadjar Djoko Santoso, VP of Corporate Communication of PT Pertamina (Persero).

Fadjar revealed that Pertamina-supported MSMEs are present through partnership programs, as well as through the Pertamina Foundation in the Womenpreneur program, the empowerment program for Islamic boarding schools known as Santripreneur, and the disability groups in Kebumen who are part of the Mutiara Handicraft business group. 

Following that, the Regent of Kebumen, Arif Sugianto, expressed his appreciation to Pertamina for supporting MSMEs, enabling them access to a wider market, including export markets. In KIE 2022, the inaugural event last year, it was proven that KIE attracted thousands of visitors and contributed to the economy of Kebumen by attracting investments of up to IDR 1 trillion. 

"We have high hopes for international events like this so that Kebumen’s economic growth and Kebumen's MSMEs can be supported," said Arif.

One of the MSME owners, Nana, the owner of Lumpia Semarang Ibu Yuli, shared her experience participating in KIE 2022. At that time, she was hesitant if her Semarang Lumpia products would sell well, as the COVID-19 pandemic was not over. However, to her surprise, visitors flocked to buy her lumpia, and within a span of two hours, 100 packages of lumpia were sold out. For the upcoming KIE 2023, Nana is optimistic that her products will be in high demand again. 

On the other hand, Gina Bags is participating in KIE for the first time this year. The owner, Her Sulistyorini, is very enthusiastic about preparing her products to be introduced to Kebumen and its surroundings people. She brings crocheted bags, canvas bags, leather bags, and high-quality crochet threads specifically prepared for people who enjoy crocheting. Her bags now consumers from overseas’ interest, such as the Netherlands and European countries.

MSMEs’ development is part of the company's Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental program in realizing economic self-sufficiency. It is also Pertamina's effort to support the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) goal 8 achievement, which aims to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth and productive and decent employment opportunities.

Pertamina's Environmental Conservation Initiative in Kebumen

In addition to participating in KIE, Pertamina also pays attention to environmental conservation in Kebumen Regency. Activities carried out include the hatchlings (Tukik) release into the open sea at Jogosimo Beach. The release of these young turtles into the open sea, is expected to contribute to Pertamina's efforts in preserving a healthy marine ecosystem.

"We are grateful for the appreciation from the Regent and the local Kebumen Government, who are actively involved and concerned about nature conservation. On this occasion, Pertamina, Pertamina Foundation, and the local government carried out the hatchlings' release and tree planting on land and in the mangrove areas to preserve the environmental ecosystem," explained Fajriyah Usman. 

This environmental conservation effort is part of Pertamina's role in supporting SDGs goal 14 (life below water) and goal 15 (life on land).

Furthermore, at the Kebumen International Expo, PT Pertamina Patra Niaga Central Java Region organized a trade-in program, allowing 3kg LPG cylinders exchange for more high-quality and environmentally friendly Bright Gas cylinders. 

Pertamina, as a leading company in the energy transition, is committed to supporting the Net Zero Emission 2060 target by continuously promoting programs that directly impact the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievement. All these efforts align with Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) implementation across all Pertamina's business lines and operations.**