Magelang, known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes, faces a growing challenge in its agricultural sector. The younger generation shows less interest in farming, which has slowed the region's agricultural progress. However, a young innovator, Melchior Raka Daksattama, or Raka, is working to change this.

In 2022, Raka founded Waste&Wishes Indonesia, a startup focused on converting food waste into organic fertilizers. This initiative aims to enhance agricultural productivity and revitalize the local farming industry in Magelang.

Raka's passion for sustainability started before university. He was already interested in environmental issues, particularly waste management and agriculture. While studying at Gadjah Mada University in Yogyakarta, Raka began focusing on how waste and sustainable farming practices could work together. His studies in geology led him to create the startup, addressing waste management in agriculture.

Despite his early dedication, Raka faced resistance from his family. They expected him to pursue a career in the mining industry, in line with his academic background. "My family doubted my decision. They saw waste management as a dead-end job. Only my mother supported me, as long as it benefited society," Raka explained.

Over time, the startup gained traction. Waste&Wishes Indonesia started converting agricultural and livestock waste into organic fertilizers, improving farming productivity in the area. Raka’s team aims to set up a production unit that will empower local farmers and communities.

A significant turning point came when Raka joined the Catalyst Changemakers Ecosystem (CCE) program, an initiative by GoTo Impact Foundation. This program connected Raka with two organizations—Bhumee Artani, focused on organic farming, and Setara, specializing in education. With their help, Raka and his team developed the Magelang Setories project, which promotes regenerative farming practices in Sawangan, a subdistrict in Magelang.

Through the CCE program, Raka’s team secured funding to advance their project. "With Bhumee Artani, we can improve farming practices and turn waste into valuable fertilizers. Setara’s help enables us to educate and engage the local community," said Raka.

Magelang Setories is expected to launch in early 2025. The project will focus on building a sustainable farming system and restoring local ecosystems. Plans include planting 2,000 trees, establishing wells for groundwater conservation, and creating fishponds and poultry farms. The project aims to benefit local farmers and improve the environment.

Raka hopes that Magelang Setories will inspire other young people to return to their hometowns and help develop their communities. "If all the youth move to the cities, who will address the environmental and social issues in their hometowns?" Raka asked.

Magelang Setories is just one of several projects across Indonesia, including in Malang, Lombok Tengah, and Belitung. These projects are designed to empower local communities and provide long-term solutions to environmental, social, and economic challenges.

KATADATA