Obet Nego Rumbin, a 28-year-old man, lives in Kampung Warkimbon, Kobe Oser Village, North Biak District, Biak Numfor Regency, Papua Province. Before turning to farming, Obet worked as a construction laborer whenever new projects arose. However, this work was not sustainable, and once a project ended, he would be unemployed again.

As the leader of the Inangkwom youth farming group, which consists of 17 members, Obet shares the story of their transformation. Previously, he and his friends worked in construction, earning just enough for daily needs. However, the work was exhausting, with strict hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and only a one-hour lunch break. Despite this, they remained grateful for God’s wisdom and grace.

Now, Obet and his young friends have become farmers in Kampung Warkimbon. They are very thankful to Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera and Kopernik for supporting and guiding them in vegetable cultivation. This support has helped reduce unemployment in their village and provided access to a variety of vegetables.

Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera taught them good gardening techniques, from seeding, transplanting, bed preparation, to mulching. Previously, they didn’t know how to use the mulch provided by the government, so some was sold and the rest used for huts and fences. Now, they understand the benefits and value of mulch.

They also learned about balanced fertilization, which is more economical and effective. Additionally, they gained crucial knowledge about the use of chemicals and pesticides, particularly the dangers of improper spraying. After receiving education from Mas Ganang and Mba Veni, they became more cautious in their usage.

With this new knowledge, Obet’s farming group successfully created an impressive demonstration plot. They feel fortunate to have received such valuable knowledge for free. Previously, their farming methods involved only clearing, planting, and harvesting without proper care, often resulting in disappointing yields.

Thanks to the guidance of Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera, their agricultural results have greatly improved. They even managed to invite the Regent of Biak to harvest at their demonstration plot, which became a source of pride. The group also received support from the Regent, and many people came to learn how to grow chilies properly.

Currently, Obet’s farming group has achieved an income of Rp 28,620,000 from Pilar F1 and Dewata 76 F1 chilies. The high chili prices at the time were very beneficial for them. As the young generation in Biak Numfor Regency, they hope to continue increasing their knowledge, expanding their land and crop varieties, and encouraging others to participate in advancing agriculture and meeting market needs in the future. For them, Yayasan Bina Tani Sejahtera is like “a never-ending stream of water,” meaning the knowledge shared with them will continue throughout their lives.