Nestled in the heart of Riau, Siak is emerging as a captivating travel destination, attracting both domestic and international tourists with its historical landmarks, stunning mangrove forests, and a modern skywalk overlooking the Siak River. With the rise of tourism comes the demand for local handicrafts and souvenirs, prompting the local government to set an ambitious vision of creating 1,000 sustainable small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that can thrive and elevate the local economy.

To support this vision, SKELAS (Sentra Kreatif Lestari Siak) is launching training programs for local SMEs. “We conduct training and mentorship for business owners. Our Siak Sustainable Business Incubation Program (KUBISA) includes innovation sessions aimed at helping them develop products that are not only appealing but also environmentally friendly,” said Cerli Febri, the initiator of SKELAS.

Innovative Souvenirs from Local Resources

Visitors to Siak can discover an array of innovative souvenirs. One standout product is the bolu kemojo, a traditional Malay cake that is beloved in Riau. Cerli shared a success story about Santi Lestari, a participant in KUBISA, who created a gluten-free version of bolu kemojo using rice bran, a byproduct of rice processing that is often overlooked. “Santi realized that many people in Java use rice bran flour for various recipes, so she experimented and succeeded in making a delicious gluten-free bolu kemojo,” explained Cerli.

Additionally, Siak is rich in pineapple crops, but until now, only the fruit has been utilized, leaving the leaves wasted. “We’re encouraging the community to repurpose pineapple leaves into thread for weaving. Collaborating with local weavers, they are now creating beautiful woven products, although they are currently limited in design due to the leaf's length,” Cerli added.

Transforming Tradition into Opportunity

Another unique souvenir is derived from the local pineapple variety known as Mahkota Siak, which farmers grow to help prevent land fires. Traditionally, women in Siak have made jellies, syrups, and jams from pineapples. After participating in KUBISA, these artisans have improved their quality standards, allowing them to develop new products like ready-to-drink pineapple beverages. Despite initial challenges with equipment and costs, the pineapple drink brand Pinaloka has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Moreover, Santi’s innovation with bolu kemojo has evolved; she created a practical premix flour that allows anyone to enjoy the cake at home, extending its shelf life and making it an easy souvenir for visitors.

Reviving Traditional Crafts

Handwoven pandan products are also making a comeback, as traditional weaving practices have been revived. Cerli noted that while pandan weaving has been primarily used for mats and baskets, Wahyu Rusiana and her team have expanded the offerings to include stylish bags, decorative items, and kitchenware under the brand Suwai. “Most customers for these products come from outside Siak, showcasing a growing interest in these unique handicrafts,” she said.

To ensure the longevity and appeal of these woven items, the artisans have begun incorporating synthetic leather into their designs, enhancing durability and aesthetic value.

Empowering the Next Generation

SKELAS is actively working with young people to elevate product quality and to encourage them to engage with traditional crafts. “Our hope is that the KUBISA participants will include more youth, as they adapt easily to new concepts. We’re even exploring online classes to improve digital literacy among participants,” Cerli explained.

SKELAS provides free training programs, continuously improving their curriculum based on previous successes. The innovative training includes product prototyping, packaging design, and market impact assessment, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship among local women and their families.

A Bright Future for Siak’s SMEs

Through these initiatives, SKELAS is not only promoting local products but also ensuring that they positively impact the community's economy. With effective marketing strategies and collaboration with local businesses, these innovative souvenirs are gaining traction both online and in physical stores, attracting buyers from outside Siak.

As Cerli summed it up, “We’re proud to see the positive response to these innovative products. Together, we aim to create a more empowered and sustainable future for Siak.”