PORTALJABAR, TASIKMALAYA REGENCY - In order to support the preservation of local culture and improve the welfare of indigenous people in Kuta Village, PLN West Java Main Distribution Unit (UID Jabar) distributes integrated infrastructure assistance through the Social and Environmental Responsibility program in Karangpaningal, Tambaksari District, Ciamis Regency, West Java Province.

The assistance includes New Installation and Free Electricity Addition for 16 customers, repair of Traditional House Installation for 79 houses, Ant Sugar making equipment, empowerment of MSMEs, and Socialization of Electrical Safety to the Traditional Village Community of Kuta Village.

General Manager of PLN UID Jabar, Susiana Mutia, conveyed the importance of PLN's role in supporting local communities through sustainable empowerment programs.

"Electricity is one of the vital needs of the community where its use can drive development in various sectors. This PLN TJSL program is a real form of PLN's contribution which is designed to provide long-term benefits, both in terms of economy, social, and environment for the people of the Kuta traditional village," said Susiana, Wednesday (16/10/2024)

Susiana explained that with the help of electricity, people can be entertained for learning, entertainment, helping with household activities, working and various productive activities.

"With the help of ant sugar making machines and training for sugar craftsmen's MSMEs, residents can improve their competence and increase the amount of production and variants of their sugar products which will lead to increased income," said Sisiana.

"Ant sugar itself is currently trending as a sweetener for various drinks, especially coffee, snacks or food. Ant sugar is also more durable, easier to package and safer to store, and has a higher price," he added.

Furthermore, electrical knowledge can increase public awareness and concern for electrical safety and security so that it is hoped that traditional house fires due to electrical short circuits can be avoided.

"All of PLN's assistance is integrated and sustainable. By combining modern and traditional elements, it is hoped that PLN can help the Traditional Village of Kampung Kuta to continue to develop without losing its cultural identity," said Susiana.

Kuta Traditional Village in Tambaksari District, Ciamis Regency, is now also known as a token village with a prepaid electricity system adopted by all its residents. PLN UID West Java has ensured that all customers in the Kuta Traditional Village use prepaid electricity, allowing the community to control their energy usage better and more efficiently. This is also in line with PLN's goal of providing modern, safe, and sustainable electricity services.

"Kuta Village is a successful example of how technology can synergize with traditional life without eliminating local values. With a prepaid electricity system, people have more flexibility in managing their energy consumption," added Susiana.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by a number of important parties, including representatives from the Ciamis Regency Government, local traditional figures, and the people of the Kampung Kuta Traditional Village. This collaboration reflects the strong synergy between PLN, the local government, and the community in an effort to preserve cultural heritage and support sustainable development.

Acting Regent of Ciamis, H. Engkus Sutisna, ST, MT, who also attended the event, appreciated PLN's contribution in supporting the development of indigenous communities.

"We are very grateful to PLN UID West Java for their attention to indigenous peoples. This TJSL program is expected to be an example for other companies in prioritizing social and environmental responsibility," he said. (rep No)