Kartika Kartika
Universitas Sembilanbelas Novenber Kolaka

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EMPOWERMENT OF PALM SUGAR PROCESSING GROUPS THROUGH COUNSELING ON EXPLORING THE POTENTIAL FOR SUSTAINABLE PALM SUGAR IN POLINGGONA VILLAGE, POLINGGONA DISTRICT, KOLAKA REGENCY Andi Wahda Ningsih; Husnul Khatimah; Nirma Nirma; Kartika Kartika; Yuli Purbaningsih
International Journal of Engagement and Empowerment (IJE2) Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): International Journal of Engagement and Empowerment
Publisher : Yayasan Education and Social Center

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.53067/ije2.v6i2.291

Abstract

Polinggona Village is an area in the Polinggona District, Kolaka Regency, where the community has traditionally processed palm sap into palm sugar as a source of livelihood. This business is still run traditionally, resulting in unstable production results, prone to failure, and knowledge regarding proper cultivation and processing practices is not well documented. This activity aims to explore the potential, local wisdom, and problems of palm sugar processing groups, as well as provide counseling to support the sustainability of palm sugar businesses in Polinggona Village. The implementation method consists of three stages: observation and interviews, in-depth to explore potential, counseling and group discussions, and mentoring and evaluation. The activity involved palm sugar processing groups in Polinggona Village as target partners. The results of the activity indicate that palm sugar production is strongly influenced by the season, the cleanliness of tapping tools, and limited fuel and cooking equipment. While some practical knowledge of farmers regarding the physical characteristics of productive trees and the use of natural materials to assist in palm sugar processing is not fully in line with general references in previous research, particularly regarding the age of tapping and the volume of sap produced. This extension successfully identified the gap between theory and field practice, providing the basis for developing a follow-up empowerment program, including training in production technology, product diversification, and marketing. This activity is a crucial first step in documenting the local wisdom of palm sugar processors while strengthening the sustainability of palm sugar as a leading regional product.