Sukses Jalankan Agrowisata Pertanian Organik, Awalnya Resign Dari Pekerjaannya Selama 15 Tahun

Summary

Ema Mardiana, a former tourism industry professional, returned to her Bali village to lead an inspiring organic farming and ecotourism initiative. Overcoming challenges and skepticism, she successfully created a community-driven organic farm, offering locals and tourists alike a chance to reconnect with traditional Balinese agriculture. Through 'Farm to Table' experiences, visitors learn about sustainable farming and traditional cooking, supporting the local economy and empowering youth. Ema’s journey showcases the power of determination, education, and community in revitalizing agricultural practices and promoting sustainability in Bali.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ema Mardiana transitioned from a 15-year career in tourism to focus on organic farming and community building in her home village in Bali.
• 😀 In 2016, Ema returned to her village and founded **Mie Organik**, an initiative focused on organic farming and educating local farmers about sustainable practices.
• 😀 The project started on 24 hectares of land and has since grown to over one acre, involving local community members in the process of organic farming.
• 😀 **Mie Organik** produces a variety of crops, including papaya, chili, and traditional Balinese herbs, with a special focus on spices used in local cuisine.
• 😀 The initiative emphasizes traditional agricultural methods, using organic fertilizers like compost and animal manure, and avoiding chemical pesticides.
• 😀 Ema aims to create a sustainable food cycle that supports local farmers while providing fresh, organic produce for the community and local restaurants.
• 😀 **Mie Organik** integrates ecotourism by offering visitors the opportunity to experience farm life, pick ingredients, and learn to cook traditional Balinese dishes.
• 😀 The farm’s **Farm to Table** concept promotes a deeper connection between food production and consumption, highlighting the importance of sustainability.
• 😀 Despite initial skepticism from the local community, Ema’s project has grown by overcoming challenges through commitment, collaboration, and education.
• 😀 Ema encourages younger generations to reconnect with agriculture, emphasizing that farming is essential for sustainability, no matter how advanced technology becomes.

Q & A

What motivated Ema to transition from tourism to organic farming?

Ema was motivated to return to her roots in Bali and explore farming as a way to find peace and reconnect with nature. She had a desire to start a farm and engage in a quieter, more meaningful lifestyle. Over time, the idea grew into a larger community initiative focused on organic farming and eco-tourism.

How did the organic farming community project begin?

The project began with Ema’s personal interest in organic farming and her desire to educate local farmers. She started by cultivating a small plot of land and gradually expanded, involving other farmers in the area. The project also aimed to offer informal training in eco-tourism and traditional agriculture.

What challenges did Ema face when starting the organic farming project?

The main challenges included overcoming personal doubts and societal perceptions about farming. Many people view farming as unappealing, associated with poverty and lack of education. Additionally, there was initial skepticism from the local community, who doubted the viability of the project.

How does the project integrate organic farming with eco-tourism?

The project merges organic farming with eco-tourism by offering tourists a chance to experience rural life in Bali. Visitors can tour the farms, pick ingredients for cooking classes, and learn about traditional farming techniques, creating an immersive cultural and agricultural experience.

What role do local farmers and community members play in the project?

Local farmers are integral to the project. They are encouraged to return to organic farming and are supported through training and resources. Community members are also involved in various activities, including educational tours and cooking classes, helping to foster a sustainable agricultural economy.

What types of crops and products does the organic farm produce?

The farm primarily produces papayas, chili peppers, vegetables, and traditional Balinese spices used in local cuisine. The focus is on growing high-quality ingredients for traditional dishes, which are then used in cooking classes and sold to local suppliers, including restaurants and hotels.

How is the organic farming community funded or supported?

The project operates on a relatively low budget, with much of the funding coming from community collaboration and support. Members contribute land, knowledge, and resources. The project has received support from like-minded individuals and organizations who share an interest in sustainable farming.

What is the 'Farm to Table' concept, and how does it apply to this project?

The 'Farm to Table' concept refers to the direct supply of fresh, locally grown produce to the dining table. In this project, it means that visitors pick their own ingredients from the farm, which are then used to prepare traditional Balinese dishes, offering a complete farm-to-table experience.

What are the key values that Ema emphasizes in the community project?

Ema emphasizes sustainability, traditional agricultural practices, and community empowerment. The project aims to revive organic farming, educate both locals and tourists, and promote a deep connection to the land and food systems.

What is Ema’s vision for the future of organic farming and eco-tourism in Bali?

Ema hopes to inspire more young people to engage in farming and to create a sustainable model for combining agriculture with eco-tourism. She envisions a future where the community becomes more self-sufficient, and traditional farming practices are preserved and appreciated by a new generation.