16 May 2025
South Halmahera, May 16, 2025 — Harita Nickel, in collaboration with the Kawasi Village Government and the South Halmahera Regency Government, officially launched SAPA Kawasi 2025 (Semarak Pasar Rakyat Kawasi) and inaugurated the new Kawasi Village Economic Zone, located in the village’s new residential area. This event marks an important step toward building a community-driven economic center on Obi Island.
More than just a festive local market, SAPA Kawasi is the result of close collaboration between the local community, government, and industry. For an entire month, over 70 local small businesses will operate booths offering a wide variety of products—from traditional food and handmade crafts to daily necessities.
South Halmahera Regent Hasan Ali Bassam Kasuba attended the event and expressed his appreciation and optimism for the newly established Kawasi Village Economic Zone.
“On behalf of the Regency Government, I sincerely appreciate the inauguration of this new economic area. This is my first time visiting the site directly, and I see great potential here to boost local economic growth, especially for small and micro enterprises. I hope Kawasi grows into a healthy, prosperous, and competitive region,” said the Regent.
Ifan Farianda, Head of the SAPA Kawasi Committee and Community Development Manager at Harita Nickel, explained that the event is intended to become an annual tradition to energize the local economy.
“SAPA Kawasi is the starting point of what we hope will become a yearly celebration. By bringing together local business bazaars, entertainment, and the participation of Harita Nickel employees, we want to introduce this commercial area as a new economic driver for Obi Island. We truly appreciate the support from the Kawasi Village Government and all Harita Nickel business units at the Obi site,” said Ifan.
He also shared an exciting highlight for the coming week: “On March 24, Harita Nickel will be bringing singer Alan Darmawan to perform at SAPA Kawasi. This event belongs to all of us, let’s celebrate our village’s progress together through music and unity,” Ifan added.
Frans Datang, Secretary of Kawasi Village, encouraged everyone to get involved and support this initiative as a step toward self-reliance. “This economic zone isn’t just for Kawasi, but also for nearby villages like Soligi. Let’s unite to strengthen our shared economic future,” said Frans.
Support from the industry was also strong. Agung Aribowo, Deputy Department Head of Technical Support at PT Halmahera Jaya Feronikel (a Harita Nickel business unit), emphasized the value of SAPA Kawasi as a platform for empowering local communities.
“We fully support this initiative. SAPA Kawasi provides space for people to explore business opportunities and grow their entrepreneurial spirit. It’s all part of our shared commitment to building a sustainable local economy,” said Agung.
SAPA Kawasi will run until mid-June 2025, serving as a vibrant meeting point for culture, commerce, and community aspirations. Harita Nickel remains committed to working together with communities around its operational areas, helping build spaces of collaboration that support lasting progress.
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