On August 4–5, 2025, KOBUMI conducted its early-year semester evaluation in Ambon, reflecting on the achievements and operational challenges of the past six months. All divisions engaged in assessing program developments, field dynamics, and areas for enhancement to inform future improvements. This evaluation served as a crucial foundation for shaping more targeted strategies for the second semester, aligning with KOBUMI’s commitment to sustainability—environmentally, socially, and through transparent supply chain governance.
A series of strategic initiatives were proposed, including the creation of a traceability system and an Internal Control System (ICS) to ensure product quality and transparency for goods sourced from local and Indigenous communities. Furthermore, KOBUMI outlined plans to boost sourcing volumes by expanding its operational footprint, enabling a responsible mobilization of more non-timber forest products and fisheries. This initiative not only enhances the productivity of customary forests and community-managed areas but also brings tangible economic benefits to the communities that have long been part of KOBUMI’s supply chain.
As a community-owned social and ecological enterprise, KOBUMI places a strong emphasis on sustainability, traceability, and operational reach, as these elements reflect the extent to which communities can be engaged, empowered, and actively involved.
“At KOBUMI, our business activities go beyond mere transactions or just offering high-quality and authentic commodities to the market,” stated Etik Meiwati, Director of KOBUMI, on Monday, August 4, 2025. “They focus on cultivating an ecosystem that fosters trust, economic independence, and the ability to manage resources sustainably.”
KOBUMI envisions its partner communities thriving independently, adding value from their own environments while taking an active role in protecting the forests and seas they cherish. Every product delivered by KOBUMI carries not just flavor, but also a narrative of land, tradition, and the people devoted to caring for these precious resources.
Text: Dea Refika Nita| Photos: Friska Kalia
