From Batik-Making to MSMEs, PT TIMAH’s Concrete Steps

From Batik-Making to MSMEs, PT TIMAH's Concrete Steps to Empower the Independence of Persons with Disabilities at SLB Mentok

BANGKA BARAT -- Efforts to promote the economic independence of persons with disabilities continue to be carried out by PT TIMAH (Persero) Tbk through its Difable Entrepreneur School Program, implemented at SLB Negeri Mentok, West Bangka Regency.

This program focuses on developing vocational skills for students, particularly in batik-making and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Through this initiative, students are not only equipped with practical skills but are also encouraged to become economically independent.

The Head of SLB Negeri Mentok, Arif Jananto, stated that batik-making has become one of the flagship vocational skills taught at the school. The batik products created by the students have even developed their own brand, Batik Taber.

"This batik program has become an integral part of our vocational learning. The support from PT TIMAH has been very helpful, especially in providing batik stamping tools, fabric frames, and batik materials," said Arif on Thursday (April 2, 2026).

This support enables students to produce products with a wider variety of motifs, including dancer motifs, Tanjung Kalian Lighthouse, and other distinctive patterns such as Wisma Ranggam, mentilin, and more.

In the learning process, students are not only taught production techniques but are also introduced to marketing. The products have been marketed with support from various stakeholders, including the Department of Trade, the Department of Tourism, and the West Bangka District Military Command (Kodim).

In addition to the batik program, entrepreneurial development is also carried out through the school's MSME unit. PT TIMAH also supports students with disabilities in developing beverage businesses, such as fruit juice, by providing the necessary equipment.

Arif explained that the program implemented in collaboration with PT TIMAH is expected to become the foundation for a sustainable production unit. This way, graduates of the special school will not only have skills but will also be able to generate income independently.

"We hope that in the future, graduates will be able to produce independently at home, and their products can be distributed through the school. The ultimate goal is independence, both in managing themselves and economically," he said.

However, the learning process does not come without challenges. Not all students can immediately participate in production, as it takes time to develop their skills.

"We need time to build their skills, and sometimes when they become proficient, they have already graduated, so we have to start looking for new students. The learning process certainly takes time," he added.

He also expressed appreciation for PT TIMAH's support of vocational education programs at SLB Mentok, and hopes the program will continue in the future.

According to him, support from various parties, including PT TIMAH, is crucial in sustaining the program, both in terms of facilities and ongoing mentorship.

This Difable Entrepreneur School Program is also part of a collaborative effort to build the independence of persons with disabilities.

"We hope PT TIMAH will continue to be present in supporting and mentoring our students through sustainable programs, so that our graduates can become independent both individually and economically," he concluded.