The Inspiring Journey of BSI's Aceh Patchouli Cluster: From Local Struggle to Export Success

In the heart of the sprawling mountains of Aceh Besar, specifically in the village of Gampong Umong Seuribee, Lhoong District, an inspiring story is being written. The patchouli farmers of this village have successfully transformed their destiny, evolving from mere subsistence farmers into patchouli oil entrepreneurs capable of penetrating the global export market. This achievement is largely thanks to the BSI Patchouli Cluster Partner Village program, which has reshaped the village's economy.

M. Ali, a 66-year-old beneficiary and operator of the central oil distillery, recounts his village's transformation. "Our farmer group was established on March 23, 2023," he says. "At that time, the price of patchouli oil was only around IDR 500,000 per kilogram. Today, it has soared to IDR 1,700,000 per kilogram."

This change isn't just about the price; it's also about the number of farmers involved. Ali explains, "Before this program, there were only 3-5 farmers who were truly committed to patchouli cultivation. Now, we have 60 farmers who are successfully growing this crop."

Overall, the average farmer's income has increased by a significant 26.4%. From a previous average of IDR 1,464,700, it has now reached IDR 1,851,351 per month as of July 2024. "Thanks to this program," Ali adds, "some farmers are now able to fund their children's university education and buy laptops from the proceeds of their patchouli oil sales."

Support and Partnership

This success would not have been possible without the support of various key partners. On October 14, 2024, the village hosted a major event attended by influential institutions, including the Financial Services Authority (OJK), the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs, the Swiss Ambassador to Indonesia, and various financial organizations.

"Through this program, we have been greatly helped by the ease of access to capital," says Ali. "BSI's assistance for the patchouli cluster is a tangible step in supporting our cultivation efforts."

However, challenges remain. Ali outlines the initial capital required to start patchouli farming: initial operational costs to reach the mountainous plantation area (IDR 500,000 per person), 2,500 patchouli seedlings, 3 rolls of barbed wire with wooden posts for fencing, and 2 tons of compost fertilizer.

Long-Term Vision

This success is not the end of their journey. Ali reveals the farmer group's long-term plans, which include:

• Land Expansion: Expanding cultivation areas through partnerships with farmers outside the mentored region, targeting an area of 25 hectares with an annual production goal of 4 tons of oil.

• Product Development: Enhancing farmers' skills to produce value-added patchouli derivatives such as perfumes, soaps, and aromatherapy products.

• Seed Certification: Obtaining certification for patchouli seedlings to enable inter-provincial distribution and broaden their market reach.

Ali concludes the interview with a piece of wisdom, "Don't be swayed by high prices to start cultivating patchouli. Remain loyal to it, because patchouli is like gold; its value will not fall."

The story of Umong Seuribee village is a powerful testament that with the right support, hard work, and an unyielding spirit, a community can change its fate. From an underdeveloped village, they have now successfully entered the export market, proving that the dream of prosperity can be achieved through perseverance and strong collaboration. Currently, 100% of the patchouli oil purchased from the BSI-fostered group by PT UGreen is export-oriented.

Looking ahead, several strategies are set to be implemented. First, the expansion of land through partnerships, aiming for 25 hectares and an annual output of 4 tons of oil. Second, the development of farmers' capabilities to create downstream products like perfume, soap, and aromatherapy. Third, the certification of seedlings to facilitate distribution across provinces.

A heartfelt thank you to PT Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk and its customers. The channeled corporate and customer zakat (Islamic alms) has brought tangible change to the community of Gampong Umong Seuribee, Lhoong, Aceh.

Every rupiah of zakat distributed has played a role in unlocking the village's potential, creating employment, and breaking the cycle of poverty, bringing blessings to both the donors and the beneficiaries.

BSI Maslahat is a National Amil Zakat Institution and a strategic partner of PT Bank Syariah Indonesia Tbk (BSI), a leader in managing zakat and strengthening the sharia economic ecosystem.