PADANG, Sept 2 – The Centre for Advanced Composite Materials (CACM) conducted an industrial visit to the Gambir Processing Center in Mungka District, Payakumbuh, as part of its engagement program in West Sumatra. The visit was designed to strengthen exposure to local industries while exploring opportunities for harnessing natural resources in future collaborations.
The day began with the delegation departing from Hotel Santika, Padang, making its first stop in Bukittinggi to admire the Jam Gadang, the city’s most iconic landmark. The journey continued to Payakumbuh, where the group gathered for lunch before heading to Universitas Andalas (Unand) for a dedicated session with local researchers and stakeholders.
Delegates photo session in front of Lembah Harau waterfalls
At Politeknik Negeri Padang (PNP), CACM was welcomed by the Director, Ir. John Nefri, who underscored the importance of university–industry linkages in advancing regional innovation. A focused discussion group followed, addressing ongoing research collaboration between CACM and Unand, with special emphasis on valorizing local waste materials around Kota Padang. The session highlighted potential applications of bio-based composites and set the stage for joint proposals targeting both academic and industrial outcomes.
In the afternoon, the program continued at the Gambir Processing Factory in Mungka District. Here, the delegation gained valuable insight into the extraction and refinement of gambir, a commodity that plays a central role in West Sumatra’s economy and heritage. The team observed the production flow, from raw leaves to processed blocks, and exchanged views with local operators about market trends and sustainability practices.
Following the factory tour, the delegation proceeded along a steep rural path to visit a traditional sugar palm processing plant. In keeping with the warmth of Minangkabau hospitality, the group was invited into a Rumah Gadang where light refreshments were served, offering a cultural touchpoint to the day’s technical program. This exchange not only deepened CACM’s appreciation for local customs but also reinforced the sense of community central to West Sumatra’s industrial and social fabric.
The visit concluded with renewed commitment to building stronger research and industrial networks, bridging advanced composite materials expertise with the richness of natural resources and cultural values found in the region. Following the factory visit, the itinerary brought the team to Harau Valley, where delegates experienced the natural beauty of the area before heading back to the hotel. The day concluded with dinner and rest in preparation for the return trip tomorrow.