On 23 June 2026, a training program entitled “Hands-on Training on Pempek Product Diversification: Producing Crispy Pempek and Grilled Pempek as Value-Added Business Opportunities” was conducted in Palembang, Indonesia. The activity brought together the Research Institute for Inland Fisheries and Extension (RIIFE), Dharma Wanita Persatuan (Women’s Organization) of RIIFE, SEAFDEC/IFRDMD, and community participants who were interested in developing entrepreneurial opportunities through fish-based food processing.
The program was officially opened by Mr. Rully Ismanto, representing the Head of RIIFE. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of innovation and product diversification in improving the competitiveness of local fishery products. He also highlighted that value-added processing can create new economic opportunities while supporting the sustainable utilization of fisheries resources.
Following the opening session, participants joined a practical training session facilitated by Ms. Indasari from Gapoktan Raya Indah Makmur, Ogan Ilir Regency. Through hands-on demonstrations and guided practice, participants learned how to produce crispy pempek (pempek krispi) and grilled pempek (pempek panggang), two innovative variations of Palembang’s traditional fish cakes. The session covered processing techniques, product quality improvement, and strategies for adapting products to evolving consumer preferences.
Beyond introducing new product variations, the training also encouraged participants to view fish-based processing as a promising pathway for household income generation. By increasing the value of local fishery products, initiatives such as this can help fisheries-dependent households diversify their sources of income, expand market opportunities, and strengthen economic resilience.
The activity demonstrated the important role of capacity-building programs in supporting livelihood improvement among fisheries-dependent communities. Through the promotion of value addition, entrepreneurship, and knowledge sharing, SEAFDEC/IFRDMD continues to support efforts to strengthen the resilience and well-being of small-scale fisheries communities across Southeas
t Asia.