Rumah Energi has inaugurated a Solar Dryer House (SDH) located at the Bambu Kuning Ecotourism area in Cikarang, Bekasi Regency. This initiative is part of the Harmony and Togetherness for a Community-Driven Water Stewardship in Cikarang (HATI Cikarang) project, supported by Amazon Web Services (AWS). The Solar Dryer House aims to enhance the quality and productivity of water hyacinth processing within the Bambu Kuning Community (KBK). 

Water hyacinth has long been known as a source of river pollution, yet through this solar-powered drying innovation, the material can be transformed into high-quality handcrafted products. The presence of the SDH is expected to accelerate the drying process while promoting more environmentally friendly production practices. 

During the event, Sahid, Chair of the Bambu Kuning Community, expressed that the facility has become a source of renewed motivation for community members, particularly the women who are directly involved in production. “The Solar Dryer House brings new energy to us, especially for the women who have long relied on unpredictable weather for drying,” he said. He added that this support not only boosts efficiency but also opens new economic opportunities for the surrounding community. “Now the process is faster and more reliable, allowing us to produce more,” he continued. 

Sumanda Tondang, Executive Director of Rumah Energi, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to sustained assistance, stating, “We hope that the SDH and the mentoring process will create positive impacts for both the community and the environment.”

Meanwhile, AWS Community Engagement Manager, Hidayah Lubis, expressed his admiration for the crafted products. “I’m truly impressed by how the woven water hyacinth has been turned into wall décor, coasters, and even tissue boxes. This showcases the tremendous potential within the community,” he said. He added that innovations and collaborations like this are essential to driving meaningful, community-level change. 

Participants in the Energy House and AWS Collaboration Present Technological Innovations 

Written by: Fauzan Ramadhan