Used Sewing Machine Empowers Five Families in Surabaya

In Surabaya, Indonesia, Utari, 58, exemplifies the transformative power of financial inclusion for women heading households. Her life took a difficult turn in 2019 when her husband's serious accident left him unable to work. The subsequent COVID-19 pandemic intensified the struggle, forcing Utari to find a way to support her family.

Leveraging her existing sewing skills, Utari decided to start a small business but lacked the initial capital. "I was confused about where to borrow money. Then I heard about PNM Mekaar. A neighbor said, 'Just try Mekaar.' I asked, what is Mekaar?" she recalled.

In 2019, Utari received an initial loan of Rp2 million from PNM Mekaar. She invested Rp1 million in a used sewing machine and used the remainder for raw materials. From this modest beginning, she began producing souvenir bags. Her products gradually gained recognition, leading to orders from various regions.

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I was confused about where to borrow money. Then I heard about PNM Mekaar. A neighbor said, 'Just try Mekaar.' I asked, what is Mekaar?

Utari's business not only covers daily expenses but has also funded her two children's university education. Seven years later, her venture, born from a used sewing machine, continues to thrive. Her financing has increased to Rp8 million, reflecting her expanded production capacity. She now employs four local women as seamstresses, creating a total of five livelihoods dependent on the business.

Kindaris, the President Director of PNM, highlighted Utari's story as a true representation of PNM's empowerment mission. "Growth is not just about numbers, but about more and more underprivileged women having the opportunity to rise, strive, and improve their family's lives," Kindaris stated. "Utari is real proof that capital provided in the right way not only changes one person's life but also opens opportunities for those around them."

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Growth is not just about numbers, but about more and more underprivileged women having the opportunity to rise, strive, and improve their family's lives. Utari is real proof that capital provided in the right way not only changes one person's life but also opens opportunities for those around them.