In the modern era, farming is not a popular profession among the youth, yet Febriko Ivan Kusumayani from Sidomulyo Village, Batu City, has defied this trend. Specializing in ornamental plants, Riko has successfully cultivated and exported these plants internationally, proving that traditional agriculture can be both profitable and innovative. Riko, a Mechanical Engineering graduate from Universitas Islam Malang, began his journey in ornamental plant cultivation as a teenager, learning through a combination of family tradition and self-education. Despite lacking formal agricultural training, his dedication and passion led him to establish a successful business. Initially, Riko focused on local markets, selling various ornamental plants like pines and fruit trees, and utilized JNE for domestic shipping. His business, which began with a small scale and a few employees, faced challenges during the pandemic, reducing his workforce to just two. However, Riko's perseverance led him to pivot towards cultivating the Song of India plant, a type of ornamental flower with promising export potential.
Riko's breakthrough came when he identified the opportunity to export Song of India to China. Despite the complexities of export regulations and documentation, he successfully shipped a container of 3,500 plants, generating around USD 12,700, or IDR 150 million. This success marked his entry into international markets, showcasing his ability to adapt and thrive. Currently, Riko manages an 800-square-meter garden where he grows Song of India plants, which are carefully cultivated for export. He produces around 5,000 plants per month, focusing on a single, easy-to-care-for variety. His future plans include expanding his export markets to Japan, Korea, and Europe, as well as experimenting with other plant varieties. Batu City Mayor Aries Agung Paewai supports Riko’s efforts, highlighting the potential for local horticultural products to gain international recognition. The city's promotion of such initiatives aims to boost the local economy and encourage creativity among farmers. Paewai also emphasizes the importance of collaboration with customs and export support services to streamline the process and maximize opportunities for local businesses. Riko's story exemplifies how traditional farming practices can be modernized and leveraged for international success, blending family heritage with innovative approaches to meet global market demands.
