LABUHANBATU SELATAN | INDATANEWS.COM ~ A youth organization in Labuhanbatu Selatan (Labusel) is embracing innovation to address limited job opportunities and rising economic pressures in rural areas. Karang Taruna Labusel has launched an initiative to cultivate straw mushrooms using palm oil waste, aiming to strengthen the economic independence of young people.
The idea was introduced during a Halal-bihalal gathering featuring a dialogue themed "Preserving and Shaping Labusel" on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the district hall. The event served as a platform for discussion while emphasizing the importance of concrete actions in driving social change.
Village-Based Economic Movement
Read Also: Labuhanbatu Selatan Police Rotate Key Officials to Boost Performance Chairman of Karang Taruna Labusel, Andi Syahputra Nasution, stressed that the mushroom cultivation program is more than a routine organizational activity.
"This is not a short-term project, but a movement. We aim to transform palm oil waste, previously seen as worthless, into a new source of income for the younger generation," he said.
He added that early results from the cultivation have been promising. In the long term, the product is expected not only to generate economic value but also to become a regional specialty and a signature souvenir from Labuhanbatu Selatan.
ECONOMIC MOVEMENT: Chairman of Karang Taruna Labusel, Andi Syahputra Nasution, highlights straw mushroom cultivation as a sustainable, village-based economic movement for young people. (PHOTO" Jhon Fitra Sagala)
Read Also: Calm Returns to Sisekar After Drug Rumor Investigation The region's heavy reliance on the palm oil industry, without sufficient economic diversification, has limited opportunities for many young people. As a result, many have left their villages in search of work elsewhere.
By utilizing palm oil waste as a substrate for mushroom cultivation, Karang Taruna offers a simple yet impactful solution. If implemented consistently, the initiative could create sustainable economic benefits.
"We will expand this program to all villages. This is not just about the economy, but about empowering youth independence," Andi added.
Read Also: Labuhanbatu Selatan Police Arrest Suspected Child Molester Government Support and Collaboration
Labuhanbatu Selatan Regent, Fery Syahputra Simatupang, praised Karang Taruna's strategic role as a driver of social change.
"Karang Taruna is not just a social organization, but a platform for developing young people with strong potential as agents of change," he said.
He emphasized that regional development involves not only preserving existing systems but also nurturing and advancing social values.
Read Also: Land Dispute Escalates in Labuhanbatu Selatan Parliament The district government also reaffirmed its openness to public feedback and proposals, aiming to foster inclusive and collaborative development.
ENTHUSIASTIC KARANG TARUNA MEMBERS: Participants actively engage in the Halal-bihalal event and dialogue themed "Preserving and Shaping Labusel" on April 14, 2026. (PHOTO" Jhon Fitra Sagala)
Inspiring Youth Through Dialogue
Read Also: 38 New Officials Sworn In to Boost Reforms and Innovation in Labuhanbatu Selatan Chairman of MPKT Labusel, Rafiq Simatupang, encouraged young participants to embrace failure as part of the journey toward success.
"What matters is the outcome, not the path. Do not be afraid to fail. If you fall, you must rise again," he said.
The event also featured an interactive dialogue with speakers Irwansyah and Deni Syafrizal Daulay, providing a space for idea exchange and strengthening collaboration between youth and government.
The straw mushroom initiative is seen as a strategic opportunity, especially amid growing demand for healthy food and an expanding market for mushroom products. It also reflects a broader shift in mindset among rural youth—from dependency toward independence and productivity.
Read Also: Viral Rumor Puts Children at Center of Social Burden With consistent implementation and strong support, straw mushroom production could evolve into a new identity for Labuhanbatu Selatan—born in villages, driven by youth, and focused on shared growth. (IDNC)
REPORTER: Jhon Fitra Sagala | EDITOR: Fik Sagala
Read Also: Labuhanbatu Selatan Secretary Inducts New School and Health Center Leaders