The presence of PT Natural Indococonut Organik (NICO) in North Halmahera Regency is a strategic move to increase the added value of local coconut commodities. This initiative was conceived by one of Tobelo’s local sons as a tangible contribution to the economic progress of the community, particularly coconut farmers, and to open up job opportunities for the people of North Halmahera.
This was discussed during a talk show on Halut Regional Government Radio (RSPD), broadcast live on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, and hosted by Febyola Lilipory. Nanang Rismadi, General Manager of PT NICO, stated that the primary objective of establishing this industry is to create job opportunities, stabilize coconut prices, and drive increases in local revenue.
Nanang explained that the increased value of coconut commodities will also boost regional income, which in turn will support the development of North Halmahera District, benefiting the community at large.
“With the presence of PT NICO in Tobelo, it is hoped that it can become the main alternative for coconut commodity absorption in North Halmahera Regency, and no longer rely on processing into copra. Until now, copra prices have often fluctuated extremely, causing coconut prices to also fluctuate extremely. Therefore, the presence of PT NICO is expected to stabilize coconut prices and demand. This stability in coconut prices and demand can improve the welfare of coconut farmers,” explained Nanang.
In addition to stable prices, Nanang said, the presence of PT NICO also has a very broad economic impact on the people of North Halmahera. This is because PT NICO has created job opportunities for the community. In addition, residents living near the industry can have opportunities for independent businesses, such as opening stalls or building boarding houses, and so on.
“So, the presence of PT NICO not only increases the economic income of coconut farmers and regional income, but also provides opportunities for independent businesses for residents. This is a domino effect of PT NICO’s presence in North Halmahera,” said Nanang.
Nanang also said that PT NICO currently employs around 2,300 people at its factory, with more than 80% being local workers. This doesn’t include around 300 workers at each pile. The plan for the number of drilling rigs to be constructed by the end of this year is 40 rigs, which will be distributed across North Halmahera. By the end of this year, it is estimated that PT NICO will have approximately 15,000 employees.
“The plan is that by next year at the latest, all of these piles will be operational. To that end, we are offering young people in North Halmahera the opportunity to join PT NICO, to work together to build a better future for the welfare of the people of North Halmahera. PT NICO is here to serve as a bridge for this region towards the welfare of its people,” said Nanang.
Nanang also encourages farmers to rejuvenate unproductive coconut trees and utilize vacant land for coconut cultivation. He is optimistic that coconuts will become a leading commodity in the future, capable of becoming the main source of livelihood for the people of North Halmahera.
In addition to focusing on economic growth and commodity resilience, PT NICO also reaffirms its commitment to regulatory compliance, both at the central and local government levels.
Source: Haluan Indonesia
