The National Zakat Council (Baznas) of Batam has symbolically offered financial support to micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (UMKM) of the rujak BMC in Lubukbaja, Batam.

This latest gesture of support is part of a broader initiative to fortify the economic strength of Batam’s local vendors, with the city’s Secretary, H Jefridin, facilitating the handover.

A grateful vendor expressed appreciation: “Words can’t convey how happy I am. Thank you to the city’s secretary and Baznas of Batam.”

On behalf of the Batam City Government, Jefridin expressed gratitude to Baznas and emphasized the importance of this capital assistance. He hopes this will significantly benefit the rujak BMC Simpang Seraya vendors.

Jefridin’s advice to the rujak vendors is twofold: maintain high food quality and effectively manage the capital they receive.

The Vice Chairman II of Baznas, Habib Soleh, clarified that this funding was sourced from zakat (charity) collections from Batam City government officials and is part of an effort to bolster the UMKM sector in Batam.

Baznas intends for the support to supplement daily needs and elevate the living standards of the rujak business operators.

The partnership between Batam’s government and Baznas signifies a concerted endeavor to strengthen the local economy. For Singaporeans and international visitors, this points toward a potentially livelier marketplace, improved product quality, and the assurance that the Batam government is actively working to empower and uplift local businesses.

The National Zakat Council in Batam boosts local rujak BMC vendors by providing business capital. With a unified effort between Baznas and the Batam City Government, the initiative aims to strengthen the city’s micro-business landscape. This move paints a promising picture for Singaporean and international visitors keen on experiencing a dynamic local market.

Source: Batam Pos (2023)