Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera (YBTS) worked with Kopernik and local chili farmers in Mnuswor Village, Biak Numfor Regency, to cultivate 1000 of chili crops. As part of the program, the vice mayor of Biak Numfor, Calvin Mansnembra, attended the harvesting process of the 1000 crops planted.

Calvin appreciated the effort of local farmers in undergoing the training provided by YBTS. According to him, the harvest results were important in supporting the farmers’ economic condition. In a month, a farmer who owned ¼ hectare of land could have an income of IDR 10 million. Thus, the local authority of Biak Numfor should keep encouraging the farmers to cultivate chili on their farmland or house. The person in charge of Mnusword Village, Alberthus Wabiser, also hoped that the authorities could keep on supporting the farmers. Currently, there are around seventeen chili farmers in Mnusword village.

One of the chili farmers, George Wabinsers, thought the YBTS training helped him. According to him, the training and support from the authorities improved his skills. The farmers, who used to rely only on the traditional method, became more skilful in modern farming methods. He also experienced an increase in his family’s economic condition.

Thus, George wanted to encourage fellow farmers in Mnusword Village to keep on cultivating their farmlands. “When we’re serious about farming, we will make it. After I started farming chili, my economic condition improved,” he stated.