Makassar, May 16, 2025 — The Culinary Arts Study Program at Politeknik Pariwisata Makassar reaffirmed its commitment to community empowerment through a Community Service Program (PKM) titled “Food Processing Series.” The initiative focused on providing training in making nastar cookies and product packaging techniques to members of the local Tanjung Merdeka community, including mothers from the Darma Wanita group and local parents.
The event took place at the Culinary Arts Kitchen of Poltekpar Makassar and was officially opened by Vice Director I, Mr. Muhammad Arfin Muhammad Salim, Ph.D., on behalf of the Director. In his remarks, the Head of the Culinary Arts Study Program, Mr. Faisal Akbar Zaenal, S.ST.Par., MM., emphasized the importance of the activity as a tangible contribution from higher education institutions to enhance community skills and entrepreneurial spirit.
The one-day training was hands-on and practical in nature. The materials were presented by experienced speakers, including Ms. Lily Dianafitry Hasan, S.Sos.,MM., CHE and Dr. Muhadjir Suni, S.Sos., M.Pd. Participants were introduced to ingredients and basic techniques for making nastar cookies and engaged in hands-on practice, including dough preparation and cookie shaping.
The second session focused on packaging, where participants learned about various types of functional and attractive packaging options. They also had the opportunity to package their own nastar cookies in visually appealing mini boxes suitable for sale.
A total of 16 participants joined the training enthusiastically. As a result, they not only gained the ability to produce high quality nastar cookies, but also understood the importance of attractive packaging in enhancing product value. The event also fostered collaboration between lecturers, students, and community members, while opening opportunities for home-based culinary businesses.
The program concluded with an evaluation session, product distribution, and group photo documentation as a token of appreciation for the participants’ enthusiasm and active involvement.