The Empowerment of Karanganom Village Residence through “Margo Mulyo” Program in Indonesia
Challenges and Objectives
In Karanganom Village, Tulungagung, Indonesia, a remarkable transformation unfolded through the "Margo Mulyo" Program. This initiative, led by the Margo Mulyo youth organization, aimed to enhance the livelihoods of village residents. Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, this program emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience.
Karanganom Village, grappling with the economic fallout of the pandemic, faced an urgent need for sustainable livelihood opportunities. The Margo Mulyo Program was devised to create new income avenues for the community through crafts, entrepreneurship, and home industries. The goal was not just economic security but also to establish the village as a productive and progressive community. The journey wasn't without challenges, including resource constraints and the need for effective collaboration among diverse partners. However, the program navigated these hurdles effectively, establishing a sustainable model of village development.
Collaboration Partners and Roles
The success of the Margo Mulyo Program hinged on the collaboration between various stakeholders. Government institutions at the village, district, and regency levels played a pivotal role by providing essential infrastructure, funding, and legal support. Their role was fundamental in ensuring that the program had the necessary resources and was compliant with regulations. Local organizations, including Bumi Putro Sinar Abadi and the Karanganom Village Dharma Wanita Association, contributed significantly by offering training programs and conducting performance evaluations. Additionally, private institutions and local businesses stepped in with financial assistance and helped in promoting the village's products, demonstrating a true spirit of community collaboration. Their involvement was key in connecting the village's output to broader markets, thereby expanding the reach and impact of the program.
Revitalisation Activities
The program's activities were diverse and impactful. A major focus was on the development of crafts and home industries, channeling the village's rich cultural heritage into marketable products. This not only preserved traditional crafts but also opened new market opportunities. Training sessions and empowerment workshops were organized, equipping the villagers with the necessary skills in technology use and marketing. They ensured that the community was not just producing goods but also adept at navigating the modern market landscape. The involvement of the youth was a crucial aspect, as they were engaged in productive activities, nurturing their entrepreneurial skills and ensuring the sustainability of the program's efforts.
Revitalisation Outcome
The Margo Mulyo Program reaped significant rewards. It led to the creation of new livelihoods, thereby enhancing the village's economy. The community experienced a surge in empowerment, with stronger bonds and increased volunteerism. In addition, with the expansion of product marketing, it also promotes and invites people to start using environmentally friendly materials. The use of environmentally friendly materials and recycling reduces the amount of existing waste and minimizes pollution in the area. The enterprise contributes to the social empowerment of youth by providing opportunities for them to become active participants in the local economy and decision-making processes. Through their involvement in producing snacks and handicrafts, they also contribute to their family, so explicitly, it will increase the family’s welfare and reduce unemployment. The market for the village's products expanded both locally and online, marking a notable improvement in economic conditions and showcasing the village's potential on a wider stage.
This is the abridged version of a case prepared by AIRI Associate Fellow Arie Ekawie Baskhoro. For further information, please email Dr. Thi Phuoc Lai Nguyen at phuoclai@ait.asia.