Artisanal Resilience: The Story of Ibu Titi Sundari and the Flourishing UMKM of Padang Tepong Village

Titi Sundari •

PADANG TEPONG – Amidst the rapid expansion of industrialised food production, the quintessential essence of traditional culinary heritage is often preserved in the most unassuming of places. In the heart of Padang Tepong Village, the rhythmic crackle of wood-fired hearths serves as more than just a cooking method; it is a testament to the tenacity of local entrepreneurs who drive the village's socio-economic engine. At the forefront of this local movement is Ibu Titi Sundari. At 50 years of age, Ibu Titi embodies the spirit of a seasoned artisan, dedicating her life to perfecting two staples of Indonesian comfort food: traditional cassava chips (keripik singkong) and hand-crafted donuts. A Legacy Forged in Fire What distinguishes Ibu Titi’s products from mass-produced alternatives is her unwavering commitment to authentic methodology. Eschewing modern gas stoves, she persists in using traditional wood-fired kilns. This choice is deliberate; the intense, fluctuating heat of the timber fire imparts a subtle, smoky infusion and an unparalleled crispness to the cassava that simply cannot be replicated by industrial means. The process is meticulous. Each cassava root is hand-selected from local harvests, expertly peeled, and sliced into delicate wafers before being submerged into large, bubbling cauldrons. The result is a golden, translucent chip that carries the narrative of the land and the labor of its maker. "These enterprises represent more than mere commerce; they are a sophisticated orchestration of local resources and inherited wisdom," noted a village representative regarding the impact of UMKM (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) in the region. The Art of the Hand-Crafted Donut Complementing her savoury snacks is Ibu Titi’s production of traditional donuts. In an era of frozen dough and artificial preservatives, these delicacies are prepared fresh daily. The dough is kneaded by hand to ensure a distinctive, pillowy texture—soft on the interior with a delicate, golden-brown crust. This dedication to freshness has made her products a cornerstone of communal gatherings and local festivities within Padang Tepong. Empowering the Rural Economy Navigating the complexities of a small business at the age of fifty presents significant challenges. However, Ibu Titi Sundari views her age as an asset—a reservoir of experience that ensures consistency and quality. Her meticulous attention to packaging and presentation demonstrates a keen understanding that for village products to thrive, they must meet contemporary standards without losing their rustic soul. This narrative aims to elevate the reader's perception of these local delicacies. They are not merely snacks; they are symbols of dedication, cultural preservation, and economic self-reliance. Supporting the UMKM of Padang Tepong Village is an investment in the sustainability of rural livelihoods. By choosing these artisanal products, consumers are directly contributing to a circular economy that honours the craftsmanship of individuals like Ibu Titi Sundari.

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