Increasing Community Capacity in Cultivating and Processing Kelulut Bee Products in the Sungai Wain Protected Forest Area

Abstract

Kelulut bee cultivation has significant potential as an environmentally friendly alternative economic resource while also supporting forest conservation. However, communities around the Sungai Wain Protected Forest Area in Balikpapan still face limited knowledge and skills in cultivating and processing kelulut bee products. This community service program aims to increase community capacity through integrated training on cultivation techniques, colony maintenance, and processing honey and its derivatives. Methods used include outreach, practical demonstrations, and direct mentoring for target community groups. The results of the program indicate an increase in community knowledge, skills, and motivation in developing kelulut bee-based businesses. Furthermore, processed honey products such as pure honey, aromatherapy candles, and klulut honey banana chips have begun to be produced as a means of applying the acquired skills. In conclusion, this program not only strengthens the community's economic independence but also contributes to conservation efforts for protected forest ecosystems.