Magelang is often identified with the worldwide splendor of Candi Borobudur. However, if we are willing to climb a little towards the Menoreh Hills, precisely in the iconic “Gereja Ayam” area, we will find a narrative that is more than just a beautiful view. This is a inspiring story Magelang about how a culinary business unit can be a breath of life for the surrounding village economy.
Kedai Bukit Rhema not just a stopping point for tourists who are thirsty after climbing. Behind the aroma of coffee and the delicious taste of fried cassava, there is a social ecosystem built with sweat, education and a long-term commitment to raising the dignity of local residents.
What exactly is Kedai Bukit Rhema?
Functionally, Kedai Bukit Rhema is a culinary facility located in the Bukit Rhema (Gereja Ayam) tourist area. However, philosophically, this place is a bridge between the natural potential of Magelang and the welfare of its people.
As places to eat near Candi Borobudur the most recommended, Kedai Bukit Rhema offers a dining experience above the clouds. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes while looking at the expanse of the valley and the silhouette of the mountains. However, the uniqueness of this shop does not only lie in its spectacular location, but in its commitment to serving “local flavors” produced directly by the hands of local villagers.
Also Read: Cafe at Borobudur
Initiating Community Empowerment Since 2017
Kedai Bukit Rhema’s journey to become one of the pillars culinary Magelang doesn’t happen overnight. It all started in 2017 under the vision of the founder, Denmas Setia Wenas.
At that time, Denmas saw a real contradiction. On the one hand, the tourism potential of Bukit Rhema is exploding rapidly, especially after it became a national film shooting location. However, on the other hand, local community involvement in the tourism industry is still very low.
Denmas identified the existence knowledge gaps or knowledge gaps. Local people have abundant raw materials and a willingness to work, but they have no understanding of global tourism industry standards and how to create one experience (experience) that tourists want. This is what moves Kedai Bukit Rhema to not just employ citizens, but “educate” them to become part of a professional industrial chain.
Education on Cheese Fried Cassava Production: From 3 People to Village Strength
One of the main commodities around Bukit Rhema is cassava. For years, cassava was only seen as a cheap commodity that was sold raw to the market at low prices. Seeing this, Kedai Bukit Rhema started a bold initiative: Education on Cheese Fried Cassava Production.
This initiative began with a seminar inviting local village residents. Of the 35 residents who attended at the start, the bitter reality greeted them; only 3 people have a strong commitment to continuing training and following strict quality standards.
However, that little determination paid off sweetly. Denmas and the team did not give up. Since 2017 until now, the cassava production team has grown rapidly to more than 16 people who work regularly. This transformation is massive:
- PKK involvement: Housewives now have significant additional income without having to leave the village.
- Local Farmers: Cassava farmers around the location now have regular buyers (Kedai Bukit Rhema) who value their harvest at a fairer and more stable price.
Now, Cassava Cheese Bukit Rhema is not just a snack; he is a symbol of the success of economic empowerment which is the main attraction culinary Magelang.
Strategic Collaboration with Educational Institutions
The empowerment carried out by Kedai Bukit Rhema was not carried out amateurishly. To close knowledge gaps existing, in 2017 Denmas collaborated Sanata Dharma University (USD) Yogyakarta.
This collaboration has a transformational impact. The campus sent more than 30 students to provide direct assistance to residents. These students and academics help develop standard operating procedures (SOP), maintain sanitation quality, and produce efficient but hygienic production techniques.
This step proves that Kedai Bukit Rhema is very serious about building a sustainable tourism ecosystem. Villagers are no longer considered spectators, but rather industry players who have professional work standards equivalent to large hotels or restaurants in the city.
Improving the Economy Through an Independent Production Cycle
The key to success inspiring story Magelang in Kedai Bukit Rhema is the closed economic cycle they created. The culinary products served on customers’ tables are the result of local production chains:
- Raw materials are purchased from local farmers.
- Processed by local workers (PKK Team and village youth).
- Presented and marketed through Kedai Bukit Rhema.
With this model, the circulation of money remains within the village environment. The impact is felt in increasing the purchasing power of the surrounding community and reducing the unemployment rate in the productive age of the village. Kedai Bukit Rhema has proven that the tourism sector can be a tool for alleviating poverty if it is managed with heart and a vision of empowerment.
The Stories Behind Inspirational Places to Eat Near Candi Borobudur
Today, Kedai Bukit Rhema has evolved. It is no longer just a coffee shop, but a destination multi-experience which exists and is loved by tourists. Its presence gives a new color to the face culinary Magelang.
For travelers or companies looking for a different experience, Kedai Bukit Rhema has now established its position as:
- Unique Meeting Place: Provides a meeting atmosphere in an open space with fresh air, far from city noise.
- Gathering & Outing Destinations: Spacious place that can accommodate large groups with warm service.
- Batik Education: An experience culture-trip where visitors (including children) can learn batik directly on location.
- Outbound Place: Utilize the contours of the hills for outdoor activities that build teamwork.
Every guest who comes and eats here has indirectly contributed to supporting the economic sustainability of dozens of families in the surrounding villages Bukit Rhema. This is a form of responsible tourism (responsible tourism).
Let’s Be Part of the Change
Seeing the transformation from just 3 committed people to a large ecosystem that revives the local economy, Kedai Bukit Rhema is clear proof that tourism is about people, not just inanimate objects or natural scenery.
If you are planning to visit the Borobudur area, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the warm service and delicious menu at Kedai Bukit Rhema. You will not only go home with a full stomach and beautiful photos, but also with a sense of pride because you have supported the empowerment of local communities Magelang.
Reservation Information:
To make sure you get the best place or want to plan a group event (Meeting, Outbound, or Outing), you can contact our official admin:
- Contact: 085725779520
- PIC: An Dinda (Admin Kedai Bukit Rhema)
Come on, come to Kedai Bukit Rhema, and feel for yourself how the smile on the hill is created from inspiring economic independence.