Babel State Polman Lecturer Launches Brand and SNI Socialization Program to Support SMEs in Bangka
The Bangka Belitung State Manufacturing Polytechnic (Polman Babel) is again carrying out its service program through socialization activities entitled "Brands and SNI for Small and Medium Industries (IKM)", which was successfully held at the Resto, Coffee and Bakery Pantai Indah Batu Bedaun, Sungailiat, Bangka Regency, on Tuesday (01/10/2024).
This event was attended by 21 participants consisting of SMEs from Sungailiat and Pemali Districts.
This activity is part of the Creative Innovation Program for Vocational Partners which aims to increase the understanding of SMEs regarding the importance of trademarks and Indonesian National Standards (SNI) in increasing product competitiveness in local and global markets. Apart from providing technical knowledge, this program also focuses on legal protection regarding brands and product quality standards.
One of the main speakers, Dr. Fajar Sulaeman Taman, M.Si, M.IPLaw from the Regional Office of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, Bangka Belitung Islands Province, delivered material regarding the importance of trademark protection as a strategic step to expand market share and maintain product originality.
"Brand protection is not just a formality, but a strategy that can protect businesses from unfair competition," emphasized Dr. Dawn.
This event was opened by Indra Dwisaputra, M.T., Head of the Polman Babel Center for Research and Community Service. In his speech, Indra expressed his appreciation for the enthusiasm of the SMEs who attended. Sanusi SST, MM.Kes, Head of Industry from the Bangka Regency Industry and Trade Department, also gave a speech. "He emphasized the importance of brands and SNI in supporting the growth of local businesses in Bangka," he said.
Chairman of the Committee, Dr. Ilham Ary Wahyudie, M.T., represented by Dr. Sukanto, M.Eng., emphasized that this activity aims to equip SMEs with basic knowledge regarding product protection through branding. "Trademarks not only increase product value, but also protect products from counterfeiting and unhealthy competition.
Dr. Ilham also stated that this outreach was an important step for local business actors to not only focus on product quality, but also on the importance of protecting the brand as a valuable business asset. "We want these small entrepreneurs to better understand the power of a brand and its protection," he added.
Subekti Saputra, S.TP, M.M. from the Department of Industry and Trade (Disperindag) of Bangka Belitung Islands Province also provided a presentation regarding Indonesian National Standards (SNI). According to Subekti, even though SNI is voluntary, there are certain standards that must be met for safety and the public interest, such as health and security.
Furthermore, Subekti also encouraged SMEs to increase the Domestic Component Level (TKDN) in their products. "By fulfilling TKDN, we can strengthen the position of local products in national and international markets," he explained, while emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the government and SMEs in achieving this target.
At the end of the event, the socialization participants expressed their gratitude for the knowledge provided. "They hope that activities like this can be held more often so that local SMEs can develop better and compete in wider markets, both national and international," said Subekti.