Optimalisasi Tanaman Aren melalui Skema Regenerative Economy dalam Upaya Peningkatan Kesejahteraan, Konservasi Lingkungan dan Swasembada Pangan Pada Masyarakat Adat Kesepuhan Ciherang, Kabupaten Lebak

Abstract

The productivity of sugar palm in Kesepuhan Ciherang Village remains low due to aging trees, pest attacks, and traditional processing methods that do not meet quality standards, resulting in limited market access and low product value. This community service program aims to improve the welfare of indigenous communities through the optimization of sugar palm cultivation using a Regenerative Economy approach that integrates economic, social, and environmental aspects. The implementation methods included socialization, training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for cultivation and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for processing, intensive mentoring by MBKM students, institutional strengthening through the development of BUMMA’s organizational structure, and market access expansion via business matching and contract farming. The first year results include the preparation of GAP and GMP SOPs, establishment of a demonstration plot for sugar palm cultivation on customary land, development of a prototype diversified product in the form of ready-to-use sugar palm syrup, and institutional strengthening through organizational restructuring. The program’s impact is reflected in a 15% increase in knowledge of GAP and GMP,improved institutional capacity, and new market opportunities through partnership networks. In conclusion, the program successfully enhanced farmers’ capacity and the competitiveness of sugar palm-based products while supporting environmental conservation and food self-sufficiency. However, sustainability requires systematic replanting of sugar palm trees, provision of food-grade processing equipment, and broader partnership networks to ensure long-term benefits.