Testimony of Japanese Literature Students Participating in the MBKM Wirausaha Merdeka Program at CV Timan Agung by: Natasha – Japanese Literature Student, Class of 2022, Udayana University

• Posted by: Admin
• Kamis, 28 Agustus 2025
• Has been read 15 time(s)

Introduction: The Beginning of the Journey

In March 2025, together with my four teammates—Angelica Ruth Yana Yawan, Ni Luh Nyoman Meira Ari Santi, Luh Nyoman Yoniasih, and Ni Wayan Kayani—I embarked on a new journey through the MBKM Independent Entrepreneurship Program, Cohort 2. The program lasted for about five months, from March 18 to July 24, 2025.

Coming from the Japanese Literature Study Program, we were initially unfamiliar with both entrepreneurship and agriculture. Yet, that was precisely what made this experience both a challenge and an opportunity. We learned to adapt, collaborate across disciplines, and develop the courage to create something real out of this new learning experience.

Pre-Immersion Stage: Building Entrepreneurial Foundations

The first stage was pre-immersion, during which we received intensive entrepreneurial training both online and offline. The topics included developing business ideas, creating a business model canvas, digital marketing strategies, and basic financial management for small enterprises.

One of the most memorable moments for me was attending sessions with local Bali entrepreneurs. They shared stories about building businesses from scratch, surviving crises such as the pandemic, and innovating to remain relevant. These stories helped me realize that entrepreneurship is not only about capital but also about resilience, creativity, and adaptability.

The branding lessons also left a strong impression. They inspired us to think about how local resources—such as moringa—could be transformed into modern products with strong appeal. This was where the first spark of our product innovation was born.

Immersion Stage: Learning from CV Timan Agung

The second stage was immersion, during which we worked directly with CV Timan Agung, an agricultural enterprise located in Tabanan that focuses on cultivating and processing moringa. As the team leader, I considered this experience a valuable opportunity to gain first-hand insights.

We observed the entire production process, from planting and harvesting to drying and processing moringa into semi-finished products. This made me realize that running a business is not just about selling the final product—it also requires managing a long and well-structured chain of processes.

We also had in-depth discussions with the business owner regarding marketing strategies, workforce management, and challenges such as price fluctuations and limited distribution. These conversations broadened our perspective that business is highly dynamic and demands strong adaptability.

From this stage, the idea emerged to transform moringa into innovative products with flavors resembling matcha. That idea eventually evolved into our brand concept: Midorikko.id.

Post-Immersion Stage: Bootcamp and Demo Day

The final stage was post-immersion, which began with a bootcamp. During this session, we learned how to develop a compelling pitch deck, strengthen our presentation skills, and communicate effectively with potential investors and customers. As the leader, I ensured that every team member felt confident in presenting our ideas.

The highlight was Demo Day, where we introduced our brand, Midorikko.id. The name “Midorikko” was carefully chosen: midori means “green” in Japanese, representing moringa’s identity, while -ko means “child,” symbolizing a new creation born from our creativity.

We showcased three main products: Moringa Cookies, Moringa Chocolate, and Moringa Latte. Each product went through multiple trials to adjust moringa’s strong flavor so that it would be more acceptable to consumers. Initially, the taste was overpowering, but through repeated experiments we eventually found the right balance—creating unique products with flavors similar to matcha.

Challenges Faced

As a leader, I encountered both technical and non-technical challenges. Technically, balancing moringa’s taste and designing appealing packaging were not simple tasks. Non-technically, managing the team was a significant challenge since none of us had a business background. At times, team members struggled to divide their focus between coursework and the project.

These challenges, however, became valuable lessons. We learned to hold open discussions, conduct small-scale research, and keep our teamwork spirit alive to ensure the project stayed on track.

Lessons Learned

There are several key lessons I gained from this program:

1. Business is a holistic process. A product is only the outcome of planning, production, distribution, and financial management.
   

2. Teamwork determines success. As a leader, I learned to delegate roles, manage communication, and maintain harmony.
   

3. Adaptability and creativity are crucial. Business dynamics require constant innovation.
   

4. Local potential holds great value. Moringa can compete with global products if packaged attractively.
   

5. Courage matters more than background. Despite not being business students, we managed to create innovative products.
   

Future Hopes

We hope that Midorikko.id does not stop at this program but continues to grow as a healthy food brand based on moringa. With the right marketing strategies, it can become an alternative for healthy lifestyles while promoting moringa as a valuable local commodity.

I also hope that our experience can inspire other students, especially those from non-business fields, to venture into entrepreneurship. Diverse academic backgrounds can actually spark fresh and creative ideas that enrich the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Closing: A Valuable Experience for the Future

Participating in the MBKM Independent Entrepreneurship Program has been a transformative journey. From curiosity, we grew into a team capable of producing tangible products.

For me personally, this program did not only provide new skills but also shaped an entrepreneurial mindset: to be courageous, consistent, and open to opportunities. I am confident that this experience will serve as a valuable foundation for my future career, whether as an entrepreneur, academic, or professional in another field.