KUPS Kopi Kelumbung: Bringing Local Coffee Potential from Villages to a Wider Market

Since its founding in 2022, the Kelumbung Coffee Social Forestry Business Group (KUPS) has been a key driver in developing the potential of local coffee in Kelumbung Village, Bungo Regency, Jambi. Formed on the initiative and under the guidance of Warsi and the Bungo Production Forest Management Unit (KPHP), the group has 15 members, consisting of women, men, and local youth who are passionate about developing coffee businesses in their area.

One of the main advantages of the Kelumbung Coffee KUPS is its coffee processing machine, currently the only modern coffee processing facility in the area. This machine is not only used for KUPS production needs but is also open to the general public who want to learn about the coffee processing process—from roasting to ready-to-drink coffee grounds. This approach creates an educational space while empowering the surrounding community to become more independent in managing their own produce.

The majority of the Kelumbung community owns coffee plantations, but is hampered by a lack of processing equipment. With the establishment of the KUPS, it is hoped that the coffee produced by the community can be optimally collected and processed into high-value products. This is a strategic step to increase community income and create a sustainable local coffee supply chain.

In carrying out its production activities, the Kelumbung Coffee KUPS prioritizes high-quality, selected coffee beans. The coffee produced is currently marketed to several cafes in Bungo Regency, which are beginning to recognize and appreciate the distinctive taste of Kelumbung coffee. Going forward, the KUPS aims to become not only a processor but also a distributor of coffee beans for the surrounding community, producing an average of 7 to 8 tons of coffee beans per harvest season.

However, the Kelumbung Coffee KUPS still faces several challenges. One urgent need is the construction of its own production facility. Currently, coffee processing is carried out in the private home of one member, which also houses children. This undoubtedly impacts the effectiveness and comfort of the production process. By having a proper production house, KUPS is expected to be able to increase processing capacity and maintain the quality of the products produced.

The KUPS Kopi Kelumbung (Indonesian Coffee Association) is a living example of how managing forest products through a social forestry approach can foster community economic independence. With the right support, this group has great potential to become a driving force for the local economy, while simultaneously preserving the sustainability of the forest and coffee culture in the region.

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