The provincial government of West Nusa Tenggara (NTB) plans to establish special pearl cultivation for local MSMEs, according to Baiq Nelly Yuniarti, Head of the NTB Trade Office. Pearls are one of NTB’s top export commodities, particularly from Sekotong, West Lombok. However, the local community has not fully benefited from this potential. To address this, the Trade Office is coordinating with the Marine Affairs Office to provide dedicated pearl cultivation for the local market. "Since the current cultivation is primarily for export, we will develop special cultivation specifically for the local market," said Yuniarti in an interview with Suara NTB on Friday, July 26, 2024. Typically, pearl harvests are exported directly to overseas factories, preventing local communities from reaping the benefits. The provincial government aims to create opportunities for locals to enjoy the fruits of pearl cultivation.

In addition to pearl cultivation, NTB is also initiating the cultivation of pearl oyster shells, providing an alternative for accessories. This innovation ensures that no part of the pearl oyster is wasted, as all parts can be utilized. "We are also developing oyster shell crafts with some entrepreneurs, so our accessories now include shell products, not just pearls. This adds variety for consumers and represents a form of innovation," Yuniarti added. Nelly emphasized that NTB pearls are of the highest quality, being genuine seawater pearls, which command a high price compared to cheaper freshwater pearls. "Our pearls from NTB are genuine seawater pearls, not the inexpensive freshwater ones. They are expensive and regularly exported; pearls are one of our routine export commodities," she explained. To maximize benefits for the region and local MSMEs, the NTB provincial government is actively promoting pearl management among the local community and ensuring the availability of raw materials. The NTB provincial government plays a strategic role in pearl cultivation management, from cultivation and export permits to local management licensing. "The provincial government contributes significantly, including in permits and other areas. The Trade Office focuses on product export and development, while cultivation falls under the Marine Affairs Office," she concluded.

Source: https://suarantb.com/2024/07/28/pemprov-ntb-kembangkan-budidaya-mutiara-khusus-pasar-lokal/