Photo: A warm, intimate atmosphere surrounds the mothers and children joining TSE Group’s cooking demo
BOVEN DIGOEL – Oil palm plantation and management company Tunas Sawa Erma Group actively seeks ways to keep itself connected with nearby communities. One of them is through an indigenous cooking event at Ujung Kia Subvillage, Ki District, Boven Digoel Regency on Saturday (3/1).
Cooking together helps build bonds and create an intimate, relaxed atmosphere enabling deeper interaction. When this mood is established, talking becomes easier, and people are more open.
Ujung Kia residents responded well to the event. They praised TSE Group’s initiative in approaching the community and respecting local traditions through food.
“We’re really grateful for the gesture. Thanks to it, we get to enjoy good Papuan food and feel a little bit closer to the company. I hope these events can continue, because they mean a lot to us as a local community,” said Servinus Pemi, representing the people.
A handful of Ujung Kians lent their hand to the activity, including local mothers. Young and old, members of the community excitedly showcased their skills in preparing and serving sago sep, one of Papua’s culinary specialties.
Photo: Locals and the TSE Group team show closeness with a group photo and luncheon
Sago sep is a traditional dish from Merauke, South Papua. It’s a mix of sago, grated coconut, and meat fillings of chicken, pork, or fish, depending on preference. Sago sep’s cooking process is quite unique — the abovementioned mixture is placed on hot coals and covered with leaves and bark, producing steam that cooks the food.
TSE Group, which runs in South Papua, continues demonstrating commitment to growing and sustaining the social and cultural environment of local communities through Corporate Social Contribution (CSC). These programs aim to strengthen company-community ties while preserving Papua’s culinary heritage. (PR)
