CARE Indonesia, supported by its partner PT Hindoli – Cargill, participated in a series of seminars and exhibitions at the Andalas Forum held at Aryaduta Convention Hall Hotel, Palembang (16–17/04). The booth, which showcased the positive impact of community empowerment efforts, including women’s empowerment, across 13 villages surrounding oil palm plantation areas in Musi Banyuasin District, was well received by forum visitors.

Approximately 50 visitors expressed interest in the empowerment initiatives, including products developed by the Women-led Economic Business Groups (KUEP), such as palm frond stick handicrafts, chips, and powdered herbal drinks.

The Governor of South Sumatra, Herman Deru, also visited the CARE Indonesia and PT Hindoli – Cargill booth and commended the palm frond handicrafts as an alternative to plastic-based eating utensils.

“This is highly innovative and creative. It should be further developed, as it is very beneficial, especially considering Indonesia is one of the largest palm oil producers. Palm waste clearly holds significant potential, and women in particular have the capacity to develop it further. If this can be expanded using palm waste while supporting women’s employment, it would be very positive, as it can help increase their income.”
— Nirmala, Andalas Forum 2026 Visitor