The Government of Gresik Regency is striving to boost the local economy for rice farmers. One initiative includes supporting PT Aji Bakuh Anugerah (ABA), a company owned by a young entrepreneur from Balongpanggang, Gresik, in exporting burnt rice husks to Japan. The inaugural export by PT ABA was officially launched by Gresik Regent Fandi Akhmad Yani, alongside the Head of the Gresik Trade and Industry Office and the Head of Gresik Customs, on Wednesday, 5 June 2024, at the Gresik Regent's Office. This launch symbolizes the government's support for encouraging export programs for local businesses, particularly in agriculture. "Who would have thought that rice husks, once only used for animal feed and planting media, could now be exported to Japan," said Regent Fandi Akhmad Yani. Known as Gus Yani, he added that PT ABA's efforts could inspire the younger generation in Gresik to enhance the local economy. "This is very inspiring for our youth. It shows that items around us have valuable potential, benefiting not only individuals but also contributing to local and national revenue through exports," he added.
Gus Yani urged the Trade and Industry Office and Customs to continue supporting other entrepreneurs in export activities, emphasizing the importance of strong cooperation between the Gresik Regency Government and Customs. "Good collaboration between the Gresik Regency Government and Customs will facilitate our community in exporting. Previously, people were intimidated by the lengthy administrative processes," he explained. With persistence and cooperation, Customs has effectively partnered with the Trade and Industry Office to introduce the public to export clinics that identify international market needs. Gus Yani highlighted the success story of Shubkhi Basyar, who, after receiving guidance from the Trade and Industry Office and Gresik Customs, established his own PT ABA and now exports burnt rice husks to Japan. "This achievement can motivate local entrepreneurs to venture into exports," he said. Shubkhi Basyar, owner of PT ABA, noted that the demand for burnt rice husks could reach up to eight shipments per month, with each shipment consisting of 11 tons. "This is a continuous process. I hope to expand exports to other countries," he stated. Before venturing into burnt rice husks, Shubkhi tried making charcoal from coconut shells but found that rice husks, abundantly available in Java, were more effective for the steel-hardening industry in Japan.
