Jakarta—Yayasan Konservasi Alam Nusantara (YKAN) and the artisanal chocolate producer Pipiltin Cocoa work together to help the residents of Kampung Merasa in Berau, East Kalimantan, gain international recognition for their locally grown cocoa beans, the group said in a statement on September 25. With the assistance of YKAN and Pipiltin Cocoa, the village’s fermented cocoa beans, known for their distinctive honey and citrus flavours, are making a mark in the premium chocolate market.
Nearly every family in Kampung Merasa cultivates cocoa on private plots using agroforestry methods, which combine various productive plants to support sustainable land use. “Our DNA is conservation, but economic welfare is crucial,” said Maya Patriani from YKAN, adding that by maximizing the potential of cocoa cultivation that has been present since the 1980s, “we aim to create alternative income sources for the community, ensuring they can thrive while preserving the forest.”
The initiative has not only brought economic benefits but also made Kampung Merasa a model for sustainable cocoa production. After being shortlisted in the top eight at the national selection for the prestigious Cocoa of Excellence competition, the community’s cocoa drew the attention of Pipiltin Cocoa, leading to the launch of Kampung Merasa 74% single-origin chocolate.
YKAN guides local farmers through the fermentation process, which enhances their beans’ flavour profile and market value. Despite initial challenges, including a local belief that cocoa was toxic, the community has embraced their crop’s potential. The success story has even attracted local coffee shops, such as Milkyway Coffee & Milk, which now use Kampung Merasa’s cocoa in their signature drinks.
With ongoing training and the establishment of the Internal Controlling System (ICS) for cocoa, Kampung Merasa is set to continue its journey towards becoming a sustainable and prosperous cocoa-producing region. The community’s efforts have not only boosted local pride but also contributed to the conservation of the Sungai Lesan protected forest, illustrating the powerful synergy between economic development and environmental stewardship. (nsh)
Banner photo: Farmers show cocoa pods ready to be processed into artisan chocolate. (Della Paramita/YKAN)
