On Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at 9:00 AM (WIB), the inauguration of the Packaging Center and the appointment of the board members of the DIY Sterile Food Association (APSDIY) took place at the Packaging Service Unit of the Center for Appropriate Technology Development, Department of Industry and Trade of the Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY). The event was attended by several prominent figures, including the Vice Governor of DIY, KGPAA Paku Alam X, representing the Governor of DIY, and the Head of the Department of Industry and Trade of DIY, Ms. Syam Arjayanti.
This event represents a concrete step in supporting SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Through the establishment of the Packaging Center, the DIY Government demonstrates its commitment to creating decent jobs and fostering inclusive local economic growth, particularly for small and medium-sized industries (IKM) and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The DIY Sterile Food Association (APSDIY) serves as a collaborative platform aligned with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. With its focus on the sterile food industry, the DIY Government aims to strengthen sustainable infrastructure development and promote innovation. The Packaging Center and APSDIY are seen as concrete steps to accelerate industrial growth while maintaining positive impacts on society and the environment.
The inauguration of the Packaging Center marks a significant milestone, especially in light of current trends in product packaging innovation. More companies are adopting environmentally friendly materials and designs to reduce waste. In line with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, the Center for Appropriate Technology Development under the Department of Industry and Trade of DIY offers packaging development services. These services are primarily aimed at supporting IKM and MSMEs in DIY, with a focus on enhancing the quality and quantity of product packaging to reduce environmental impact.
The event was also attended by representatives from the Department of Food and Agricultural Product Technology (TPHP), Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), including Prof. Dr. Ir. Tyas Utami, M.Sc., and Prof. Dr. Ir. Chusnul Hidayat, who serve as mentors for APSDIY. Their involvement symbolizes strong support and guidance for the advancement of the sterile food industry in the region. This collaboration embodies the spirit of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, emphasizing the importance of partnerships between the public and private sectors, as well as educational institutions, as a foundation for achieving sustainable development.
In his speech, Vice Governor KGPAA Paku Alam X expressed hope that the Packaging Center would operate by prioritizing innovative packaging practices. He also highlighted the importance of APSDIY in helping MSMEs and IKM in DIY compete at a global level through the implementation of commercial food sterilization.
During the ceremony, Sri Paduka symbolically pinned badges on the Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer of APSDIY, showing his support. He also signed a commemorative plaque to officially inaugurate the Packaging Center.
Through these initiatives, the DIY Government has shown its firm commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The inauguration of the Packaging Center and the appointment of APSDIY board members are expected to have a positive impact on economic development and environmental sustainability in the Special Region of Yogyakarta.