Utilizing Mangrove Leaves as Chips, IPB University Student Wins 3rd Place in Business Plan Competition

Technology and social-based business development has been widely developed in Indonesia.  Likewise, what was done by three students of the Department of Agribusiness of IPB University.  Irvan Didi Pramana, Pramita and Bagus Estu Ramadhan succeeded in developing a social-based business (sociopreneur).

The innovation of mangrove leaf chips named "Rovestik" succeeded in bringing these three students to win 3rd place in the Business Plan Competition at Sebelas Maret University in Surakarta, early last December.

Rovestik is a mangrove stick chip developed from Muara Gembong, Bekasi.  Rovestik is developed from mangrove leaves.  This coastal area experiences abrasion problems to the homes of residents. The condition of Muara Gembong, which abrasions occur a lot, initiated us to raise a sociopreneur based business.  The concept of sociopreneurs in this business is that five percent of proceeds from one year's sales will be sent to plant mangroves in the area.

"Roves made from mangrove leaves have many benefits.  Mangrove leaves can help treat patients with diabetes, asthma and several other diseases.  Actually for the process of making this chip business, the ones producing are the people themselves, then we sell it, "explained Irvan.

The advantage of Rovestik is that mangrove stick chips do not yet exist in Indonesia, then attractive packaging to bring up the social side that attracts consumers to buy products. Future development plans, this product can be produced 800 units per month with a variety of flavors.  Expansion of development will also be pursued in various coastal areas in order to support the community's economy while still caring for the environment.  (Ath / Zul)

Keyword: Mangrove Leaves, Rovestik, Sociopreneur, Agribusiness Department, IPB University, IPB students, Business Plan Competition