A transformation is currently taking place in Panembangan Village, located in the Cilongok Subdistrict of Banyumas Regency. This change began with recommendations from academics at Jenderal Soedirman University (Unsoed), including Prof. Dr. Sri Lestari, S.E., M.Si., Prof. Toto Agung Dwi Haryanto, and Dr. Dyah Susanti, SP., MP. The village has been selected as the site for a community service program focused on enhancing village tourism and the creative economy, which has already made a positive impact on the social and economic structure of the community.
According to Anggoro Agus Triyono, the Secretary of Panembangan Village, prior to Unsoed's involvement, the creative economy in the village was operational but lacked coordination. MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) actors were working independently, without clear guidance, which hindered significant improvement in the local economy.
“Before this program, MSME players typically consisted of three to five individuals who traded haphazardly without any marketing or branding strategies. Since the introduction of the Unsoed program, the community’s mindset has begun to change,” he stated. Through intensive training provided by the Unsoed team, MSME participants have gained essential skills in business management, digital marketing, and product packaging, leading to a more structured approach to the village’s economic activities.
One significant milestone in the revival of the local economy was the opening of the Panembangan town square, which serves as a center for economic and social interaction. It is now bustling with buying and selling activities every day. “Many residents have started small businesses; those who initially just followed the trend are now becoming consistent MSME players,” Anggoro added.
The increase in the number of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) has positively impacted community incomes, turning what were initially side ventures into primary sources of income for many families. The presence of Unsoed has also facilitated access to digital marketing for MSME owners, allowing them to promote their products on various social media platforms and online marketplaces. "In the past, marketing was done solely through word of mouth, but now we can reach customers beyond our region, even across the island, and deliveries are consistently underway," he explained.
This program has also revitalized the local tourism sector, making Panembangan Village a destination for innovative and educational attractions. Notable offerings include Sukan River Tubing (2022), Mini Tubing (2025), and a Horse-Style Steam Bath with Spice Sauna, as well as agricultural and fisheries education tours for children. "Mini tubing has become a viral sensation and attracts numerous visitors, whereas river tubing is highly dependent on the season since water flow is significantly affected by weather conditions," he noted.
Village development can be challenging because MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) actors are often accustomed to working independently. Therefore, a gradual approach is necessary to ensure acceptance within the community. As Anggoro explained, “If we jump right in, the community can become confused, so we start training from the basics and progress to advanced levels.”
The development of the village's economy and tourism is also dependent on the community’s openness to new ideas. Many creative concepts emerge from the residents. Anggoro noted, “Numerous new ideas come from the community and are discussed collectively until they evolve into marketable products or services. This demonstrates that the community's creativity continues to grow.”
At the beginning of the program, there were only about four micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the village, including sellers of catfish floss, tilapia floss, tilapia ice cream, and fish bone crackers. Since then, the number of MSMEs has increased, thanks to training and guidance, as well as support from tourist attractions like Warung Mbok Darwis and children's educational centers in the area.
This growth has drawn the attention of people from outside the region, who come to learn about and observe the development of Panembangan. Additionally, students from the Mina Padi Unsoed program have played a significant role in village development activities. "Students often engage in discussions, provide input, and learn directly from the community. This has been a new experience for us," he said.
As it entered its second year, the assistance provided became more comprehensive, incorporating training in tourism management, livestock feed management, and the marketing of agricultural and fishery products. This initiative involved neighborhood associations and local villagers. “Everyone attended the meeting. We explained that Panembangan was on its way to becoming a tourist village, so it needed everyone's support,” he stated.
One significant change has been the shift in how the community perceives tourism, which was previously associated primarily with popular destinations like Baturraden or the beach. Now, residents take pride in their village being recognized as a tourist destination. “We never thought our village could become a tourist spot, but now many outsiders visit, and we realize that our village has a lot of potential,” he remarked. Panembangan is also recognized as an affordable tourist destination, with no special entrance fees. Instead, it only charges parking fees for motorcycles and cars, which covers all facilities.
Anggoro expresses hope that Unsoed will continue to provide assistance through further input and training in the future. He emphasizes that this program stands out because it actively engages the community with two-way communication. “This program is not just about delivering material and leaving; it involves meaningful discussions, adapting to the village's needs, and providing ongoing support until the community becomes self-sufficient,” he explained.
In closing, he conveyed his gratitude to the Unsoed team for their dedication and hard work, which have positively impacted village development. “We are very thankful. Our village, which was once limited in many ways, is now progressing. We hope this program continues to address more aspects and brings lasting benefits,” he concluded.
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