APRIL Group Receives Upakarti 2024 Award for Community Empowerment
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APRIL Group has been honoured by the Indonesian government for its impactful sustainability efforts, supporting women’s empowerment, small businesses, and workforce development in Riau
APRIL Group, through its operational unit PT Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper (RAPP), received the Upakarti 2024 Award for Pioneering Service from Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry. This prestigious award celebrates APRIL’s significant contribution to community empowerment in the surrounding areas of Pangkalan Kerinci, Riau Province, where the company operates.
“Receiving the Upakarti award fuels our commitment to continue empowering communities, particularly those near our operations, and to build a future of sustainable and responsible business practices,” says Sihol Aritonang, President Director of RAPP.
This is the first time APRIL has received this prestigious award, which highlights its support for emerging businesses like Batik Andalan. This Riau-based initiative, established in 2015, has transformed local women into skilled batik artisans. The group's Batik Bono souvenirs, which have earned the National Standard certification (SNI), showcase their dedication to quality and safety, making them a source of regional pride.
Another initiative by APRIL to empower communities is the Rumah Madu Andalan programme, launched in 2018. Its flagship product, Madu Foresbi, has pioneered the production of Riau’s wild forest honey and is now sold in souvenir shops across Pekanbaru, supporting the local economy while positioning Riau as a hub for high-quality, natural products.
APRIL’s efforts in strengthening the local labour force were also key to earning the Upakarti award, mentoring local partners to provide employment for the company’s nurseries and mills. To date, APRIL has empowered over 100,000 offline partners across 49 villages and 243 in-line partners across various sectors, from transportation services to material suppliers.
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