The spirit of cross-country collaboration was once again realized through the Global Community Outreach activity held on June 21, 2026..
This program brings together students and academics from various international universities, namely Novia University of Applied Sciences (Finland), KTH Royal Institute of Technology (Sweden), VIVES (Belgium), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) (Malaysia), Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) (Indonesia), and Davao del Sur State College (Philippines). This activity provides a platform for participants to exchange experiences, perspectives, and knowledge regarding the application of lean and circular economy principles in supporting the development of sustainable micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The activity began with an introduction to the basic concepts of Lean Manufacturing as a foundation for creating more effective and efficient business processes. Participants gained an understanding of the importance of identifying value-added activities and reducing various forms of waste often found in MSME operational processes. In addition, the material also discussed the application of 2S (Sort and Set in Order) as a first step in building a more organized work environment, as well as the importance of safety aspects in creating a safe, comfortable, and productive workplace. These three concepts served as a foundation for participants before identifying opportunities for improvement in community service objects.
Next, participants were divided into several international groups to conduct an ideation process based on the existing conditions at three partner MSMEs: Kopi Wonosalam, Olahan Tahu Kediri, and Gethuk Pisang. Through field observations and discussions with business owners, each group analyzed various potential waste issues, layout issues, material management, and occupational safety aspects. Based on these identifications, participants developed various improvement recommendations by integrating lean principles to make the production process more efficient, productive, and provide greater added value for MSMEs.
Not only focused on increasing efficiency, this activity also promoted the concept of the circular economy as an approach to creating business sustainability. Participants were encouraged to design solutions that could utilize resources more optimally, reduce production waste, and increase the economic value of the resulting by-products. By combining lean and circular economy principles, the resulting ideas are expected to have a positive impact not only on the operational performance of MSMEs but also on community welfare through more responsible and sustainable resource utilization.
Through the 2026 Global Community Outreach, participants gained valuable experience applying theories learned in class to real-world problems. The collaboration between students from various countries, academics, and MSMEs demonstrated that innovation can emerge from diverse perspectives and international cooperation. It is hoped that this program will not only strengthen participants’ competencies in lean manufacturing and the circular economy but also serve as a concrete step in supporting the transformation of MSMEs toward more efficient, sustainable business systems that improve community well-being.
Author: Brian Arga Prasidio Putra
Editor: Brian Arga Prasidio Putra
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