So far, many Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have run their business with simple equipment. In fact, with the addition of technology, MSMEs can develop and be able to compete.
Seeing these conditions, the Semarang State Polytechnic (Polines) through the 2018 Community Partnership Program (PKM) is committed to assisting MSMEs in providing appropriate technology in various cities in Central Java. One of those who received assistance in providing appropriate technology was MSMEs in the field of bamboo craftsmen in Salatiga City.
"Although there are many SMEs in Salatiga, bamboo craftsmen, not many have used this technology, even though it can help increase income," said Riles, M.Wattimena. as the Head of the Community Service Team for the Community Partnership Program (PKM), at the MSME workshop location, some time ago..
Accompanied by Aryo Satito and Adilistiono (Polines lecturer) and members of the community service team, Riles, MW said that his team trained two MSME bamboo craftsmen in KARYANTO Art, Kutowinangun sub-district, Tingkir sub-district and SANTO Art in Ngaglik sub-district, Sidomukti sub-district, Salatiga city.
“These two MSMEs produce bamboo handicrafts, such as: flower vases, pencil cases, piggy banks, ashtrays, bracelets, etc. Marketing their products to Solo, Semarang, Yogyakarta and Jakarta," he explained.
According to him, through PKM community service, his party managed to hold training on sawing and sanding bamboo in the two MSMEs. As a result, the quality of the product increases because the surface of the bamboo is smoother. "The average selling price increased by 10 %," he said.
He also added that Polines is ready to help MSMEs in other cities. "The SME bamboo craftsmen in Salatiga are just an example of what we have done in community service activities," he added.