Partnership model for sericulture development to improve farmer’s welfare (a case study at bina mandiri farmer group at Sukabumi Regency)

Abstract

One of the agro-industrial sectors that has the potential to improve the welfare of the community is sericulture. Sericulture is an activity in the silk agroindustry, ranging from mulberry cultivation, silkworm cultivation, yarn, and fabric production to marketing. However, 95% of domestic demand for silk yarn is still imported from China although the quality local silk yarn is not inferior to Chinese products. Problems hindering silk development in Indonesia include limited capital and access, technology, and markets. Also the lack of policy supports for the development of sericulture. This paper presents partnership patterns in sericulture development between related parties (government, entrepreneurs, and silk farmers). The research was conducted at the Bina Mandiri Farmers Group, Sukamaju Village, Kadudampit District, Sukabumi Regency. The research method used was descriptive qualitative. The results showed that the partnership pattern developed was the plasma nucleus pattern. The step of cooperation in forming a business partnership is one strategy to develop a business for farmers. It requires maximum support from entrepreneurs through training packages for farmers. Guidance is carried out through the transfer of technology for enhancement productivity to increase farmer’s competence. In addition, coaching is also carried out by developing sericulture agribusiness institutions through cooperatives to improve farmers’ welfare further.