KALEB Community transforms coconut waste into handicrafts in Bitung

The KALEB Community in Bitung, North Sulawesi, is transforming coconut waste—including wood, shells, and husks—into valuable creative handicrafts. This initiative provides economic opportunities and skill development for people with disabilities, including those with physical disabilities and the deaf community.

The program is supported by Pertamina Patra Niaga Regional Sulawesi through the Pusat Ajar Disabilitas Unggul (PADU) initiative at the Bitung Integrated Terminal. To ensure quality, tutors undergo Trainers of Trainer (ToT) programs with professionals before leading practical workshops for community members.

Currently, the group processes approximately 20 kilograms of coconut waste monthly. Future plans include expanding production capacity and marketing reach. There are also discussions regarding developing the community into an educational tourism destination, offering workshops, sign language introductions, and local cafe services to promote inclusivity and local creative economy.