Rewarding Indonesian Rubber Growers Through Our SAHABAT Programme
Olam Agri, a leading food, feed and fibre agri-business, has launched SAHABAT, an initiative designed to reward rubber growers in Indonesia. SAHABAT, which means “Friend” in Bahasa Indonesia, aims to foster a more equitable, resilient and sustainable rubber value chain. Implemented in collaboration with PT Rubber Jaya Lampung (RJL), the programme recognises and rewards growers twice a year for exceptional performance in the quality, consistency and volume of natural rubber delivered. It builds on the strong success of a similar initiative rolled out by Olam Agri’s rubber business in Cote d’Ivoire in 2017, known as Gouassou.
The launch ceremony brought together more than 550 participants, including smallholder rubber growers, sub agents, suppliers, Olam Agri partners and local government officials. The Guest of Honour, Busyairi Aftoni, S.E., M.M., Head of Agribusiness Institutions and Extensions Division, Agriculture Department of Lampung Province, added that continuous support for farmers through the SAHABAT programme will enhance rubber productivity in Lampung, making it more competitive and sustainable.
As a gesture of immediate support for farmers, tapping tools and safety boots were distributed directly to smallholders to improve both productivity and personal safety in the field. Many attendees shared that this was “the first event of its kind in their lives,” and expressed renewed motivation and pride in remaining part of the rubber commodity sector.
Olam Agri also recognised its top nine suppliers for their dedication and achievements. Widiyanto received first place for exceptional reliability, commitment and leadership in natural rubber production. The rewards presented — including one tricycle, two motorbikes, 17 smartphones, 1,600 tapping tools and 1,600 pairs of safety boots — represent both appreciation and empowerment, supporting beneficiaries to strengthen their operations and improve their livelihoods.
Every drop of effort from Indonesia’s rubber farmers and suppliers matters. Through SAHABAT, we celebrate their contributions and provide the support needed to strengthen the entire value chain. Together we are not only cultivating rubber, but we are also cultivating innovation, growth and a stronger future for Indonesia’s rubber sector.
Gaurav Gupta,
Vice President and Business Head for Rubber SEA, Olam Agri
We are proud to stand alongside Olam Agri and our partners in celebrating the achievements of our suppliers and smallholders. Their hard work drives the success of Indonesia’s rubber industry, and SAHABAT gives us a meaningful way to give back to the community that sustains us.
Eric Hadisurya,
Owner of Rubber Jaya Lampung (RJL)
The loyalty programme forms part of Olam Agri’s partnership with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) under the Sustainable Agriculture for Forest Ecosystems initiative, which promotes sustainable natural rubber production and improves international market access for rubber growers in Lampung. This collaboration reinforces Olam Agri’s vision of creating a future where every stakeholder, from smallholders to industrial partners, contributes actively to responsible and inclusive agriculture.
Indonesia is rapidly emerging as a strategic natural rubber producer, with Lampung standing out as a province of significant potential. The first edition of SAHABAT reflects a strong, collective commitment across the supply chain to support rubber growers and suppliers, recognise their vital contributions and build a more equitable and resilient sector.
Robi Ramdani,
Responsible Sourcing Supervisor, Olam Agri
