Batang, a regency rich in local potential, is experiencing rapid growth through innovation in the food industry. One of its standout products is Opak, a traditional cassava-based snack that serves as a vital source of livelihood for the residents of Kebumen Village, Tersono District.
Beyond being a delicious treat, Opak significantly contributes to the local economy. Recognizing this potential, Ngahari, an entrepreneur, established Opak Bumen, a cassava processing business that has provided new economic opportunities for farmers and residents. With the expansion of Opak Bumen, local cassava farmers now have a more stable market for their produce, and community members can actively participate in the production process.
Ngahari, who leads the Bina Sutra group, highlighted how innovation in Opak production has created new job opportunities for the surrounding community. “We continuously strive to improve the quality and production capacity of Opak Bumen to compete in a broader market. With support from various stakeholders, including universities, we are optimistic about further growth,” he stated.
To enhance production efficiency, the Community Service of Superior Commodity Development team from Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) introduced technological innovations from upstream to downstream. They developed a grinding machine to streamline cassava processing and prototyped a modern drying oven, leading to improved quality and increased production capacity for Opak Bumen.
Micro-enterprise transformation is not only about production but also about marketing. Opak Bumen has embraced digital platforms, which are now available on Instagram, Facebook Ads, Shopee, WhatsApp Business, and TikTok Shop. A Linktree has also been integrated to centralize various sales channels, making it easier for customers to access product information and place orders.
To further expand its market reach, a Google Tag-powered map of Opak Bumen artisans has been created, allowing customers and distributors to locate production sites with ease.
To strengthen its business foundation, Opak Bumen has secured essential permits and certifications. Ngahari successfully obtained a Business Identification Number (Nomor Induk Berusaha / NIB) and a Household Industry Food Production Certificate (Sertifikat Produksi Pangan Industri Rumah Tangga / SP-PIRT), ensuring the safety and legality of the products in the market. These certifications enable Opak Bumen to be sold in souvenir shops, minimarkets, and national online marketplaces.
Septrial Arafat, S.P., M.P., a UNDIP Community Service supervising lecturer, emphasized the significance of community empowerment through food innovation. “This initiative is a real example of how knowledge and technology can be directly applied within society. With proper guidance, businesses like Opak Bumen can grow sustainably and create a broad impact,” he explained.
By purchasing Opak Bumen, consumers are directly supporting local cassava farmers and home industries in Kebumen Village. The product is available for direct purchase at the production site in Kebumen Village, Tersono District, Batang Regency. Orders can also be placed via WhatsApp at 089505322860, and more updates are available on Instagram @kampoeng_opak.
Through end-to-end optimization, Opak Bumen is not just a regional flagship product but also a testament to how innovation and community empowerment can go hand in hand to drive local economic progress.
