Rusmiati Turns Used Paper into Crafts, Turnover Reaches IDR 5 Million a Month

BULELENG, GARISBUMI.com – A pile of used newspapers became the start of a business for Luh Rusmiati, a woman from Sudaji Village, Buleleng Regency, Bali. Through Gegaen Lima Craft, he processes used paper into crafts with a turnover estimated to reach around IDR 5 million per month.

Business income is not always the same every month. However, since starting to study independently in 2016, Rusmiati has continued to develop products, from simple baskets to furniture in the form of tables and chairs.

"Initially I saw a pile of newspapers in my relative's house. I wanted to make a basket for mineral water. After a relative was interested and asked to make it, it finally developed and someone asked to make other products such as bowls," he said when met at his gallery, Friday (2/10/2026), as reported on the Buleleng Regency Government website.

Without special education in the field of crafts, this resident of Banjar Dinas Ceblong learned to process paper into items that can be reused and also have resale value.

The results of the experiment initially attracted the attention of people around. Demand also increased, encouraging Rusmiati to develop a business which was later named Gegaen Lima Craft.

Used Paper Exchanged for Craft Products

The products made by Rusmiati now include pencil cases, trays, coasters, key chains, bowls, and even tables and chairs.

The raw materials come from various types of waste paper. Some newspapers were purchased, while other papers were obtained from donations from friends.