Behind the aroma of crispy banana chips and savory homemade basreng, lies the story of resilience from women in Batang Toru and Muara Batang Toru sub-districts. They are more than just Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) actors—they are mothers, economic pillars of their families, and agents of change who prove that women can thrive when given the space and support they need.
Since 2021, Agincourt Resources, through its Community Development and Empowerment Program (PPM), has supported this remarkable journey. To date, 53 culinary MSME players—most of whom are women—have received comprehensive assistance, including training in food sanitation and business management, access to fully equipped production kitchens, and support in securing business legality such as Business Identification Numbers (NIB), Home Industry Food Production Certificates (PIRT), and halal certifications. Behind these figures are faces filled with renewed hope and pride.
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Sri Dewi Juliani Sembiring is one such story. A resident of Batu Hula Village, she lost direction after her husband passed away, forcing her to halt production of her banana chips due to financial constraints. Life offered her a second chance when she became a supported partner of Agincourt Resources. Today, her brand “Keripik Bunda 2R” is available at various souvenir centers across South Tapanuli, becoming both the primary source of income and a symbol of pride for her family.
A similar story comes from Eri Susanti, a mother of two who began her snack business in 2018. After joining the program as a partner in 2023, her business, “Ersel,” flourished thanks to training and facility support. Her signature product, basreng (fried meatballs), now generates a daily revenue of up to IDR 600,000—enough to cover her eldest child’s college tuition. From her modest kitchen, Eri is building a better future for her family.
More than just an economic aid initiative, this program reflects Agincourt Resources’ genuine commitment to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) number 5: Gender Equality. When women are empowered, entire communities flourish. When a kitchen becomes a space for innovation and hope, Martabe is not just a gold mine—it becomes a mine of dreams.
