Markaswalet, a startup supported by the Business Development and Incubation Agency (BPBRIN) at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), has formed a strategic partnership with the East Kalimantan Provincial Government.

This initiative, in collaboration with the Office of Animal Husbandry and Animal Health (DPKH), focuses on improving the capacity of swiftlet farmers across the province.

The collaboration began with a Training of Trainer (ToT) program in Samarinda. The event also marked the launch of the Markaswalet digital platform, created to support swiftlet farming from end to end.

“Sarang burung walet remains a leading commodity due to its high market value and export potential. That’s why it needs continuous technical support, mentoring, and infrastructure so farmers can improve productivity and product quality,” said Ihyan

Nizam SPt MSi, Acting Head of Breeding, Feed, and Livestock Production at DPKH East Kalimantan.

Smart App Enhances Real-Time Monitoring and Farmer Training

The Markaswalet app, developed by a team composed of 95 percent UNAIR alumni, provides an agri-tech solution tailored for swiftlet farmers.

It enables harvest tracking, real-time temperature and humidity monitoring, and pest detection using MataWallet Pro, an IoT-based camera system.

“We want farmers not only to record their harvests but also to learn structured cultivation techniques. Until now, they’ve relied on YouTube, which is sometimes incomplete. This app also helps them get VKN certification,” said Maulana Satria Aji, Chief Business Development at Markaswalet.

Along with the app, Markaswalet introduced its swiftlet perfume product, which has been adopted by more than 10,000 farmers in different regions.

The product has shown effectiveness in accelerating colony growth and increasing production efficiency.

Farmers’ Aspirations Drive Policy Engagement

Maulana emphasized that Markaswalet is helping express the concerns of farmers who often feel unsupported by existing government policies.

The cooperation with DPKH East Kalimantan reflects a new approach education before regulation.

“Farmers won’t object to government involvement if it begins at the start of the process, not just during tax collection. We invited the government to help with perfume supplies, tools, and education. The response from farmers has been very positive, and this is a lesson for all parties,” said Maulana.

Building Community Models for Broader Expansion

Markaswalet plans to expand its activities to other areas, including East Luwu in South Sulawesi.

The company aims to build farmer communities as long-term partners.

“We are forming local communities so that there is sustainable community empowerment. Education is the foundation so that farmers can be independent, productive, and ready to enter the export supply chain,” said Maulana.

PHOTO: UNAIR

This article was created with AI assistance.