BURU REGENCY (21 December 2023) - Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini emphasized empowering social assistance recipients through local potential.  During her visit to review cataract surgery at Namlea General Hospital, Minister of Social Affairs took the time to visit one of the eucalyptus oil craftsmen in Namlea, Buru Regency, Maluku, on Thursday (21/12).

"Most of them are recipients of social assistance. But they have declared that they are leaving social assistance. Yesterday they graduated. What does that mean? Their income has increased," said the Minister of Social Affairs.

The large number of eucalyptus oil trees in Namlea means that eucalyptus oil has a high opportunity to improve the community's economy.  Even though income has increased, limited resources to market eucalyptus oil products, especially from small craftsmen, are little known to the public.

In response, Minister Risma provided a solution to rebrand and open up marketing opportunities for eucalyptus oil.

"The contents must be checked by a lab first. So, we will standardize them one by one first. Later we will help with the packaging," said Risma.

Lasiang Nurtalu, a eucalyptus oil craftsman who was visited by the Minister of Social Affairs and her entourage welcomed the Minister's idea.

"If the Minister said that she would help with marketing, we would be happy," said one of Karang Jaya residents.

Ministry of Social Affairs and the local community are committed to supporting eucalyptus oil craftsmen.  Through branding and increasing market access, Ministry of Social Affairs seeks to ensure that this economic empowerment has a sustainable positive impact for all parties involved.